Procurement Professional

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, was established in 1954 and is one of the world's largest and most respected centers for scientific research. With a mission to push the frontiers of science and technology, CERN employs over 2,500 staff members and collaborates with thousands of scientists from around the globe. The organization operates in multiple countries and is known for its groundbreaking work in particle physics, fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. Diversity is a core value at CERN, and it remains central to its mission and continued success.

Job Overview:
As a Procurement Professional within the Supplies section of CERN's Procurement and Industrial Services Group, you will play a crucial role in the procurement of supplies and services essential for the organization. Your responsibilities will include participating in the new ERP implementation project and the Source to Contract (S2C) project, which are vital for streamlining procurement processes. You will also be involved in the procurement of software, ensuring that CERN has the necessary tools to support its scientific endeavors. This position requires a proactive approach to managing procurement activities, including drafting commercial documents, defining procurement strategies, and sourcing new suppliers. You will be expected to communicate effectively with various stakeholders and negotiate terms that align with CERN's objectives. Regular reporting to management on procurement progress will also be a key aspect of your role, ensuring transparency and accountability in procurement activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participate actively in the new ERP implementation project, contributing to the development and optimization of procurement processes.
• Engage in specific procurements for supply and IT contracts, including software license agreements.
• Conduct price inquiries and invitations to tender, ensuring competitive pricing and quality.
• Negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers, placing orders and contracts that meet CERN's requirements.
• Provide regular updates and reports to management regarding procurement progress and challenges.
• Draft commercial documents for supply and IT contracts, ensuring compliance with CERN's policies and regulations.
• Define procurement strategies that align with organizational goals and objectives.
• Source new suppliers and evaluate their capabilities to meet CERN's needs.
• Manage and follow up on the commercial aspects of contracts, including critical examination and detailed analysis of commercial offers. 1
• Support the negotiation team in commercial, technical, and contractual negotiations, ensuring favorable outcomes for CERN. 1
• Address ambiguity and conflict effectively, maintaining a constructive approach in all interactions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be nationals of a CERN Member or Associate Member State. A professional background in Computer Science, Engineering, Economics, or a related field is required. Candidates should possess experience in drafting commercial documents for supply or IT contracts, defining procurement strategies, and sourcing new suppliers. Strong communication and negotiation skills are essential, as is the ability to manage and follow up on commercial aspects of contracts. Candidates should also be able to deal with ambiguity and conflict effectively, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in challenging situations.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field with 2 to 6 years of post-graduation professional experience is required. Alternatively, candidates with a PhD and no more than 3 years of post-graduation professional experience will also be considered. It is important that candidates have not previously held a CERN fellow or graduate contract.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in procurement, particularly in the areas of supply and IT contracts or license agreements. Experience in drafting commercial documents and negotiating terms is highly desirable. Familiarity with ERP systems and procurement processes will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication at CERN. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to learning French, which is beneficial for working in the multilingual environment of CERN.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is 24 months, with a possibility of extension up to a maximum of 36 months. The position requires a commitment of 40 hours per week and offers a hybrid working model. The target start date for this position is January 1, 202

• The job reference is IPT-PI-SU-2026-145-GRAP. Compensation includes a monthly net stipend ranging from 6372 to 7004 Swiss Francs, depending on the candidate's degree. Additional benefits include 30 days of paid leave per year, comprehensive health insurance coverage, family allowances, and a relocation package based on individual circumstances. On-the-job and formal training, including language classes, will also be provided.