Global Senior Procurement Manager - Plastics
The Senior Procurement Manager - Plastics will oversee the global sourcing strategy for key plastic raw materials (e.g., polyolefins, engineering plastics, recycled polymers, additives). This role requires a balance of commercial acumen, technical material understanding, supplier relationship management, and a strong grasp of global market dynamics.
You will lead cross-regional sourcing initiatives, optimise cost and supply security, drive sustainability objectives, and partner closely with R&D, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain teams.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
- Develop and execute global category strategies for plastics, aligned with corporate goals for cost optimisation, innovation, sustainability, and risk mitigation.
- Monitor global polymer markets, supply/demand trends, feedstock developments, and geopolitical influences.
- Evaluate and implement alternative materials, recycled/resin solutions, and innovative sourcing models.
Supplier Relationship Management
- Manage strategic supplier partnerships at regional and global levels.
- Lead contract negotiations, annual price discussions, and long-term agreements.
- Assess supplier performance through structured KPI frameworks, audits, and continuous improvement programs.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with R&D and Operations to integrate new materials, support product development, and ensure technical compliance.
- Align with Quality, EHS, and Compliance teams to meet regulatory requirements and sustainability targets.
- Partner with Finance on budgeting, forecasting, and cost-management planning.
Risk Management & Sustainability
- Lead risk assessments, dual sourcing strategies, and contingency planning to ensure supply continuity.
- Support circularity initiatives, including bio-based plastics and recycled content integration.
- Drive supplier sustainability programs and support the company's ESG objectives.
Data, Analytics & Reporting
- Use data-driven tools for spend analysis, cost modelling, and scenario planning.
- Report category performance, savings, and market insights to senior leadership.
Requirements
Experience & Qualifications
- 8+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain - ideally within plastics, chemicals, packaging, or advanced materials.
- Strong knowledge of polymer markets (polyethylene, polypropylene, engineering resins, elastomers, additives, etc.).
- Proven experience negotiating complex contracts in a multinational environment.
- Track record of delivering cost savings, supplier performance improvement, and strategic initiatives.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong commercial and analytical acumen.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence at senior levels.
- Experience with sustainability and circular materials initiatives is a strong advantage.
- Fluent in English; German or French is a plus.
What the Company Offers
- Opportunity to lead a strategic global category in a world-class organisation
- Highly collaborative, diverse, and international working environment
- Competitive compensation package and benefits
- Significant autonomy and high-impact decision-making
- Career development opportunities across global sites and business units
FAQs
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