Head of Procurement Excellence

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Head of Procurement Excellence - Your next role?

As a leader of Global Procurement Excellence you are in charge of deploying SAP ARIBA as part of our EasyConnect initiative. EasyConnect replaces the former SAP SRM interface and introduces a more intuitive and collaborative environment for end‐users and suppliers alike and facilitates efficient master data maintenance with suppliers.

You will establish a clear vision for processes, systems, and digital transformation to drive procurement evolution in view of the upcoming Procurement AI revolution and aligned with the strategy 2030 goals and targets. Lead & develop Procurement Excellence team covering Raw Materials, Indirect Material & Services, Sustainability as well as Content , Business Market Analysts and Sourcing support team (35 team members). Actively engage and represent Procurement with key IT & GBS stakeholders on strategic initiatives to ensure progress on simplification, digital, STC framework as well as bringing best practices and outside-in view to the procurement organization.

You will report directly to the Chief Procurement/Sustainability Officer.

Multiple location: Argenteuil (France), Naarden (Netherlands), Budapest (Hungary), Vernier (Switzerland), Kemptthal (Switzerland)

Your main responsibilities will include:

Procurement Excellence Strategy

• Establish a Procurement Excellence roadmap adapted to Givaudan's future challenges with a focus on simplification, digital transformation, and best practices & training.

• Propose and drive solutions for procurement processes, policies, procedures for stable operations and continuous innovation for procurement to become best in class

• Lead strategic procurement excellence projects including chairing appropriate steercos

• Drive adoption of best ways of working and appropriate change management related to the implementation of procurement processes, solutions and data management

• Ensure that the global procurement guidelines and best practices are understood across the procurement organization.

Processes, Systems and Audits

• Provide guidance on simplification of RM & IM&S procurement processes and systems

• Create and guide the team on digital roadmap in coordination with STC Content Management and DTC GSO and GSEs on PTP topics

• Drive adoption of best practices and systems

• Define STC control framework

• Audit coordination and follow-up

Sustainability Digital Solutions

• Oversee Sustainability digital solutions evolution in line with the Global Sustainability strategy

• Guide the Sustainability Excellence Manager and team to create and execute digital roadmap in coordination with the Global Sustainability extended team, IT and organizations using relevant data and ensure the focus is on simplification of end-to-end data management, processes and systems

Communication with Stakeholders

• Work closely and collaborate with RM & IM&S category management and the IM&S regions, Expert users, GBS PTP and GBS DTC & the IT BP

• Act as Procurement business partner with IT organization

• Propose solutions for decision making by PLT (RM and IM&S) and relevant stakeholders

People Management

• Oversee direct management of Sr. Procurement Excellence Managers

• Manage the Content/Sourcing and BMA team

• Attract and develop necessary talent to build a high performing organization

• Develop a strong succession plan, promote high potentials and address performance gap

Your professional profile includes:

• Master degree required / Business Administration /Supply Chain or other related field

• 10+ years of experience in relevant role, procurement exposure is beneficial

• 7+ years proven leadership experience in an international environment

• Prior experience in matrix global organization

• Experience in managing a global team

• Knowledge of F&F/FMCG/Chemical industry is beneficial

• Fluent in English

• Knowledge of SAP Ariba

• Openness to travel (based on location, regular travel is required)

• Proficient in delivering clear and structured messages

• Highly analytical with ability to translate data into information with long term strategic thinking capabilities

• Cultural awareness and understanding of fast changing requirements

• Excellent change management skills – track record in managing complex transformations

Our benefits:

• Attractive package with benefits

• Excellent opportunities for progressive learning and development

• A creative team environment that will inspire you

• Other local benefits based on where you are based

• Hybrid role (1 HO day/week)

At Givaudan, you contribute to delightful taste and scent experiences that touch people's lives.

You work within an inspiring teamwork culture – where you can thrive, collaborate and learn from other talented and passionate people across disciplines, regions and divisions.

Every essence of you enriches our world.

Givaudan is committed to equal opportunities. Therefore, we welcome applications regardless of cultural and social background, gender, age, religion or sexual identity. 

We also have a safe working environment, progressive working conditions and are certified as an equal pay employer.