Interim Management, Procurement & Transformation for Sustainable Results

Welcome to D. Sauer Consulting. I support companies in Switzerland, Germany and Austria as an experienced partner in strategic and operational procurement, interim management, and complex transformation programmes. Drawing on many years of international experience, I deliver stability, efficiency and measurable results.

My Approach

Informed by extensive experience, I help you identify the optimal solution for your requirements. Targeted consolidation drives additional efficiency, with standardised workflows and a central compliance structure ensuring clear, reliable processes. This allows you to focus more on your core mission while simultaneously achieving long-term savings.

Transformation

I support companies through major change and development initiatives – particularly when expenditure lacks visibility and where organisational capabilities need strengthening. Together, we optimise processes, enhance digital performance and further develop your teams and operating model. This creates a solid foundation for long-term organisational and technological progress.

Interim Management

Through interim engagements, you benefit from my immediate availability, high flexibility and specialised expertise. I take responsibility during transitional phases, support change initiatives, and address urgent challenges immediately. I operate with a strong focus on cost efficiency and clear objectives, ensuring a stable transition until a permanent appointment is made.

Executive Profile

I bring extensive strategic and operational leadership experience in both direct and indirect procurement, gained through roles in global corporations across a variety of fields, including financial services, the chemical industry and managed services. I combine in-depth specialist knowledge with clear communication, strong presentation skills and the ability to engage stakeholders effectively at all management levels. I am results-oriented, reliable and resilient, and have consistently delivered sustainable savings, stable operational frameworks and effective transformation programmes in complex international environments.

Zwei Personen in Geschäftskleidung prüfen Dokumente, eine von ihnen zeigt mit einem Stift darauf.

Services

Support in procurement, transformation and interim management, backed by many years of experience.

Zwei Personen sitzen an einem Tisch und lesen Dokumente durch. Eine Person schreibt auf ein Blatt Papier, während die andere die Hände gefaltet hat.

Contact

Prompt, direct assistance for your enquiry.

Mann im dunklen Anzug mit verschränkten Armen, lächelnd, vor grauem Hintergrund.

Professional Experience

  • Head of Indirect Procurement – AXPO (Nov-2025–Dec-2025)

    Responsible for all indirect categories, including IT, professional services, facility management, as well as fleet & travel. In this role, I oversaw central procurement processes, optimised cost structures and ensured efficient collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders.

  • Client Engagement & Global Development Management – Executive Director, Chain IQ Group AG (2014–2025)

    As a Global Client Engagement Manager and Executive Director, I supported key international clients with their procurement needs and transformation programmes.

    I devised global procurement strategies, developed organisational structures, standardised processes, and implemented end-to-end KPI reporting.

    Additionally, I served as the central point of contact for global outsourcing programmes, advised C-level executives on strategic procurement matters and delivered sustainable savings across multiple categories through consolidation, transparency and process optimisation.

  • Global Head Sourcing Investment Agreements – UBS AG (2009–2014)

    Built and led a new global unit responsible for negotiating commissions for third-party funds.

    I developed key reporting and process structures and implemented a governance framework that generated previously untapped revenue and significantly enhanced the division's profitability.

  • Global Head Sourcing Software & Mainframe Services – UBS AG (2005–2009)

    Spearheaded global strategic sourcing of software solutions and IBM mainframe products, managing purchasing spend of approximately USD 1.5 billion.

    I restructured the procurement organisation in Switzerland, implemented global sourcing standards and introduced performance-driven supplier and contract management framework.

  • Head Procurement IT & Corporate Services, Invoicing & Proposals – BASF IT Services (2001–2005)

    Built and led the procurement function of a newly-founded European IT unit.

    The introduction of an SAP-based purchasing and process system resulted in cost savings of approximately 40%.

    In addition, I integrated the sales back office, including invoicing and quotation management, and delivered further savings of 15–20%, particularly in IT and telecommunications. Team size: over 45 employees.

  • Head Planning & Reporting Raw Materials Procurement / Buyer & Trader – BASF SE (1986–2001)

    Oversaw global planning and reporting for BASF Group's raw material procurement.

    I conducted the first ever successful global e-auction in the commodities sector, generating savings of over 15%.

    Furthermore, I worked as a purchaser and trader for refined products in Ludwigshafen, Germany, and Seal Sands, UK.

My Vision

My vision is to help businesses reach their full potential by combining strategic clarity, operational excellence and cross-industry experience. I reduce costs, strengthen collaboration in procurement and drive transformations – providing pragmatic, measurable results and genuine transparency with a view to achieving long-term goals. Through trusted relationships and structured solutions, I help organisations navigate change successfully and build a solid foundation for sustainable growth.

Personal Background

About me

I live in Zurich-Witikon and was born in Münster (Germany) – the home of Tatort, Prof. Börne and Wilsberg. I am a father to three grown children.

Hobbies

My interests include swimming and basketball. I'm also quite the bookworm.

What You Can Expect From Me

Einkaufskorb mit Pfeilen.

Procurement

& Efficiency

Drei Personen mit einem Stern über sich.

Leadership & Resilience

Zwei Zahnräder mit menschlichen Figuren darin, die durch Pfeile zu einem Kreis verbunden sind, symbolisieren die Zusammenarbeit.

Transformation & Implementation

Contact Form

Please fill out the form – I will get back to you promptly

with a personalised response.