Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers, and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.
Smurfit Westrock is seeking an experienced Sr Manager of Raw Material Procurement reporting to the Vice President, Raw Material, Continuous Improvement, and Technical Sourcing. This individual will be responsible for overseeing the strategic sourcing of raw materials in support of North America paper and board production.
Job Summary:
Manages and oversees strategic sourcing, primarily domestic, for Smurfit Westrock. The Sr. Manager of Raw Material Procurement will be involved, to varying degrees, with all aspects of the strategic sourcing process, including project planning, specifications development, strategy alignment with stakeholders, strategic category management, supply market research, and supplier engagement/evaluation/selection and, new supplier implementation. Leads strategic sourcing activities for categories within the Raw Material area that are both specialized (examples such as latex and minerals used in paper coating) and commoditized (examples such as sulfuric acid). Capturing savings through purchasing volume, negotiating price, working capital, and TCO contracts with suppliers in support of company goals and objectives. Works closely to build a working relationship with functional stakeholder teams and suppliers to ensure effective implementation plans and cost savings / working capital strategies are executed, tracked, and continuously improved. The ideal candidate must be comfortable working independently and in a team environment. This position will focus on the highest return generation projects available within Raw Material areas and will interact with a wide variety of stakeholders in both mill and converting locations.
Position Requirements:
Willingness to travel to domestic locations and possible international locations as needed (max 20%).Highly Capable in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and ability to support and lead data analytics Significant experience with RFx strategy development and use of e-Sourcing tools Excellent communication, project management and relationship building skillsStrong organization and presentation skillsCross functional team leadership experience
Responsibilities:
Meet assigned goalsCost savingsCost avoidanceContinuous Improvement and Total Cost of Ownership improvement Working capital gains through Account Payable growth and inventory reductionDiverse supplier spend growthContract coverage in accordance with Procurement PolicyMeet individual training objectivesLead sourcing and category management processes Assess current and future needs/specifications within category.Work with Finance and local site Procurement to ensure baseline data is accurate.Follow sourcing best practices and Procurement Policies.Build sourcing category teams made of experts and stakeholders in the targeted category. Align with stakeholders on sourcing strategy.Implement supplier negotiation, selection, and implementation.Negotiate contracts and focus on ongoing supply chain risk reduction. Communicate new agreements to local site procurement, both timely and effectively. Monitors business unit satisfaction with key suppliers and supports resolution of issues.
Maintains expertise in assigned spend categories:Remains current with market trends and internal business needs by maintaining relationships with suppliers, market experts, local sites, and BU leadership.Meet with suppliers to conduct regular business reviews and stay updated on business and upcoming changes that may affect Smurfit Westrock and suppliers. Identify and project manage the evaluation of new technologies that may address internal optimization and productivity needs.
General Management Responsibilities:
Provides fact-based understanding of bottom-line benefit of all decisions and opportunities; prioritize team time to maximize benefit.Responsible for identifying production or cost saving opportunities and complete, or assist in completing, analysis to determine potential upside and a path to achieve value.Ensures compliance of internal controls as it relates to Smurfit Westrock policies and procedures.
Experience/Educational Requirements:
MBA preferred, Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in Purchasing, Supply Chain, Finance, Business, or Engineering.Experience in the pulp and paper industry.5+ years of sourcing experience in a manufacturing environment and formal sourcing process training.Raw material sourcing/procurement experience is preferred.Performance Excellence focus preferably with Green belt or greater certification.Experience fostering and effectively managing high-performing teams.
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.