Direct Procurement Manager at PZ Cussons

The Role:

Your role will be to implement Procurement Strategy in the 3rd Party and Packaging Division. Being ‘bold’ to identify and develop new suppliers, seeking solutions to manage both new product development and current products updates. Implement margin improvement initiatives – always ‘striving’ to challenge ourselves to do things differently/better driving efficiencies and cost savings for the business.  Demonstrating key strategic thinking, being aware of business performance, and Procurement’s contribution. The role is a great opportunity to work across categories, contributing to continuous improvement across our own factories and contract manufacturers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Working ‘together’ collaboratively with the cross functional Teams to lead 1 or more of PZ Brands and various packaging categories for all procurement activity.  This includes supplier strategy, cost negotiation, business award, supplier performance, tariff and exchange rate management and forward forecasting of cost / supply continuity and supplier risks
• Lead NPD from a Procurement perspective for assigned brands, supporting NPD manager to define tier 1 supplier, negotiate cost at best LT and MOQ – ‘striving’ to deliver the best option for the business
• Support the new product development process to ensure NPD delivery on time and within budget.  Highlighting any potential risks to the Senior Procurement Manager and through the Stage and Gate process
• Negotiate and ensure best costs.  Manage Tier 1 supplier costs changes, while up-dating LT and MOQ according to forecasts.  Working ‘together’ with NPD, Demand and Planning teams to drive continuous improvement
• Co-ordinate the supplier monthly performance review meetings.  Follow up on any Procurement / Supplier agreed actions
• Select and manage packaging suppliers for relevant brands working with Quality/R&D/Packaging Managers.  Working with PZ Procurement teams in other geographies when required. Understand supplier strengths/weaknesses, lead-times, development strategies and latest technologies
• Initiate and Implement margin improvement initiatives across designated brands. Deliver in conjunction with PZ Teams Category / Supply Teams and Suppliers
• Follow the Procurement processes in SAP, including supplier creation and maintenance, contract creation, price maintenance and source list

Skills and Experience:

• Degree educated or equivalent
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• MCIPS desirable to combine management skills with proactive professional supply chain management expertise, to make significant contributions to supply chain performance and cost-effective procurement.
• Strong communication skills
• Problem solving abilities
• Strong analytical skills
• Experienced in Microsoft Excel, Word & Outlook.

Skills and Qualifications:

• An interest in beauty & personal care products – from our own brands, budget to high end products.  A passion for the product is key.  Are you a beauty junkie always trying out the latest product or trend?  Or do you ‘get’ the needs of the consumer
• Organised and forward thinking
• Analytical - computer literate and numerate.  Proficient when using Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong communication skills, able to engage at all levels of the business.  Effectively challenge behaviours and propose new ways of working with a strong commercial outlook.
• Networking – ability to build great working relationships with stakeholders, suppliers and across the wider PZ group.  This is to ensure we maximise and leverage every opportunity to drive value for the business