Manager, Direct Procurement (Packaging)

TheManager, Direct Procurement rolefor GTIis responsible for partnering with theProcurement, Brand, MarketingandOperations teamsandwill leadthesourcing and procurementofdirect materialsto supportthe company's needs. This role will be critical to ensurematerialsare procuredin the most cost and time efficient manner by evaluating contracts and vendors whiledriving reporting and tracking for assigned spend categories.This role will be accountable for driving profit enhancement through negotiations and enabling differentiated product sourcing solutionswhilemaintaining qualityanddelivery to thebusiness. This role will drivethe continuousprocess of actualizingthe best sourcedmaterialsolutionstoachieveorganizational goals and efficiencies.

This is a hybrid role based in Chicago, IL with in office expectations 1-2 days per week.

• Undertakes day-to-day, full-cycle,procurement activities for GTI'stop brands and relatedcategories.
• Evaluatesvarioussolutions available in the marketand provides recommendations. Also works closely withengineering,brand, marketing, and the project team to ensure collaboration.
• Leads the Sourcing Process, including preparing RFI/RFQ/RFPs by working closely with stakeholders to understand their needs, translating that into thesourcingprocess.
• Overseesthe management of ongoing vendor relationships and supplier performance across their portfolio;actsas a point-of contact and subject matterexpert oncontractterms; responsible for renewal of existing contracts and renegotiations of pricing.
• Identifiesstrategic opportunities which result incost savings, areas for efficiency and opportunities forProcurementteam.
• Works closelywiththeaccountingteam toensurevendorbilling iscorrectsand terms & conditions are adhered to.
• Followsprocurement strategies, policies and procedures as defined by the leadership team, develops a comprehensive understanding ofthebusiness and user requirements for assigned spend categories.
• Develops a business relationship with functional stakeholderson theOperations, Brand, Marketing & Project teamsandsolicitsfeedback on sourcing and vendor performance, sharesand discussessupply base opportunities, andidentifiesnew and changed needs.
• Builds a network of reliable andqualitysuppliers and vendors; forges close supplier relationships with specific vendors.
• Helps drive tracking and reporting for assigned spend areas; develops tracking mechanisms and supplier key performance indicators with the Director; tracks compliance and develops leakage reports; supports formal management reporting to director and other members of senior management.
• Managescomplex negotiations with suppliers that require a detailed strategic plan.
• Monitorsstatus of open purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery of all materials, includingtimelyresolution,communication, and mitigation of future potential problems.
• Determinesandestablishesoptimalinventory levels based on forecast, demand variation andequipmentlead times.
• Supports the development of cross-functional teams byidentifyinginternal customers and stakeholders for inclusion; interfaces with internal customers to understand requirements and resolves issues; involves key stakeholders in sourcing development and execution.
• Identifiesandpartnerswith business stakeholders to execute cost reduction opportunities to achieve financial goals without compromising quality or service.
• Directly manage and mentor a team of Procurement Planners

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field:business, supply chain,finance
• 5+ years in packaging procurement (on-shore, near shore and global) and contract administration/management; experience purchasing direct materials (packaging, ingredients, etc.).
• 3+ years people management experience
• Expertisein the supplier marketlandscapes: major suppliers, trends, threats, terms, etc.
• Hands-onexpertiseindeveloping and implementing programs for cost reduction, supplier performancemanagementand inventory reductionand well-versed in all stages of procurement.
• APICS or Supply Chain Certification ispreferred.
• Highly motivated, self-directed, innovative, and able to work independently or among teams with keen judgement, commonsenseand resourcefulness.
• Adapts and thrives in a demanding, start-up, fast-paced environment.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills (verbal, non-verbal, written), with the ability to build relationships at all levels, both internally and externally.
• Possessesa high levelof critical thinking& problemsolving.
• Operates witha high levelof professionalism and integrity, including dealing with confidential information.

• Must passany and allrequired background checks
• Must be and remain compliant with all legal or company regulations for working in the industry
• Must be a minimum of 21 years of age
• Ability to travel up to 15%

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