Strategic Tender Manager EMEA (Buy side)Preferred location: AntwerpReady to lead major tenders, shape procurement strategy, and play a pivotal role in the future of Europe's digital infrastructure? Let’s talk.What’s the mission?With business booming across data centres and network infrastructure across the globe, our client is rolling out a fresh procurement model. It’s a hybrid setup, central category management based in Belgium, supported by local buyers and four cluster leads across Europe.Now we’re looking for a Strategic Tender Manager, someone who can take charge of complex tenders, build cross-country strategies, and drive commercial impact from day one.What you’ll be doing Lead the full tender lifecycleYou’ll own the process end-to-end, from shaping the sourcing strategy to closing the deal with suppliers. Be the connectorAct as the commercial bridge between sales directors, product managers, category leads, and local buyers. You’ll keep everyone aligned and on point. Collaborate with key verticalsYou’ll work closely on long-term supplier strategy and roadmap planning helping to integrate regional silos and bring clarity to complexity. Drive synergy across the regionYou’ll be the go-to person for anything procurement-related in the EMEA region — leading international negotiations, managing supplier relationships etc.What makes you a fit You’re experienced in project management (especially in matrix environments) You’re commercially sharp, with solid influencing and negotiation skills You bring gravitas and clear communication — even in tough conversations You thrive in culturally diverse, cross-functional teams You’re adaptable, solutions-focused, and not into one-size-fits-all thinking Bonus: a background in telecom or data centres is a plus Nice to have... Experience building strategic procurement capability from scratch A track record of cost optimisation and process improvement Familiarity with ad hoc procurement environments (no demand forecasting yet? No problem) Fluency in English is a must — Dutch, French or German is a big plus