Purchasing Manager Non-Food / Purchasing Manageress Non-Food

Viking River Cruises AG - June 6, 2025

About Viking

Founded in 1997, Viking offers destination-focused voyages across oceans, rivers, and lakes around the globe. Designed for seasoned travelers with a passion for science, history, culture, and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often states that Viking provides experiences for The Thinking Person®.

Viking boasts over 250 awards, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans, and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler, as well as being recognized at the top of its categories by Travel + Leisure. No other cruise line has achieved these honors simultaneously from both esteemed publications.

Role Description

The Purchasing Manager's primary responsibility is to collaborate with the Senior Purchasing Manager in sourcing all non-food items—such as galley equipment, paper products, chemicals, tableware, uniforms, and more—globally for Viking’s fleet of River, Ocean, and Expedition ships. This role includes:

  • Preparing tenders and RFx documents
  • Calculating and forecasting spending and savings across categories
  • Maintaining and updating standard items and prices in Viking’s purchasing system
  • Conducting ad-hoc analytics

Additionally, the Purchasing Manager will manage logistics and inventory controls, work closely with Viking’s Onboard Operations Team across all divisions—including Galley, Housekeeping, Restaurant/Bar, Front/Back Office, and Entertainment—to ensure that all required products for onboard hotel operations are sourced and contracted at optimal pricing.

This role reports directly to the Senior Purchasing Manager – Non-food and is based in Basel, Switzerland.

Key Responsibilities

  • Calculate and forecast spend and savings by category
  • Maintain and update standard items and specifications in our system
  • Prepare tender and RFx documents
  • Support and participate in negotiations
  • Assist the Senior Purchasing Manager in identifying potential global suppliers, adapting to the evolving needs of the Ocean and Expedition Business
  • Help resolve issues with suppliers, including service level problems, quality discrepancies, out-of-stock situations, and invoice discrepancies
  • Support the Ocean and Expedition Logistics Team with delivery planning for the vessels
  • Participate in industry events and exhibitions
  • Maintain the Viking Purchasing System (e.g., items, prices, logistics)
  • Update prices in our system periodically
  • Conduct ad-hoc analytics related to purchasing and supply chain
  • Assist the Senior Purchasing Manager in preparing status updates for the Senior Management team

Key Qualifications

  • Business fluency in English (basic German is an advantage)
  • Some work experience through student jobs or internships
  • A keen interest in building a career in Supply Chain Management
  • A passion for travel and interest in the hospitality industry
  • A self-starter with a proactive mindset
  • A desire to learn and a strong preference for teamwork
  • Hands-on and hardworking attitude
  • Strong analytical skills with a preference for dynamic environments
  • Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint

Education

A recent graduate with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, or a degree from a Hospitality school.

Community & Culture

Join a fast-growing and dynamic environment featuring a modern workspace and flexible working hours.

How to Apply

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

For further inquiries regarding this position, please contact us at .

*Unsolicited submissions of candidates from agencies will not be considered*

Location : Basel
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

Please enter your information in the following form and attach your resume (CV)

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