Global Direct Materials Associate Director

Global Direct Materials Associate Director

Join our team that powers household names such as Andrex , Kleenex , Cottonelle , Scott , Viva , and WypAll . This role leads Global Direct Material Procurement, aligning cross functional stakeholders and supplier partners to drive value across the segment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a global team of 7 procurement professionals responsible for all direct spend (Packaging, Chemicals, Adhesives & Non Wovens) across all accountable business units (excluding APAC).
• Drive all cost and cash targets for the direct category globally.
• Develop and manage global supplier relationships, including scouting, raising supply risks, and providing feedback on supplier performance.
• Identify and execute strategic category initiatives, such as innovation, and design and lead strategic sourcing events and negotiations.
• Manage cross regional executive level engagement with business stakeholders on category needs and strategy.
• Develop global category strategy and execution plans based on benchmarking, supplier landscape analysis, and market dynamics.
• Collaborate with finance and category managers to provide financial forecasts.
• Optimize inbound supply chains, specifications, and total delivered costs by working with manufacturing and regional category managers.
• Ensure quality & risk management, including supplier code of conduct, social responsibility, and compliance with internal controls.
• Lead people management activities, including talent development, performance management, compensation planning, and organizational effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, or related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in procurement, supply chain, or product supply roles with a demonstrated track record in leadership and at least 5 years of extensive team management experience.
• Technical knowledge of contract negotiation strategies and global contracting nuances.
• Strong analytical skills for diagnosing and resolving complex issues and identifying transformational opportunities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to communicate across multiple organizational levels, including executive leadership.
• Experience working on a global scale and influencing across cultural boundaries.
• Proven record of delivering business results through collaboration, influence, and partnership with key category managers and stakeholders.
• General working knowledge of COUPA, MS Office, and other relevant procurement tools and systems.

Travel

Requires up to 25% travel.

Benefits

• Market leading pension contribution.
• Bonus scheme.
• Flexible savings and spending accounts to maximize healthcare options.
• Private medical insurance with dental and vision coverage options.
• Income protection insurance options.
• Additional programs for education, adoption, relocation, and temporary childcare support.

Work Model

Flexible work model blending remote work with intentional in person collaboration.

Location

Walton Oaks, additional locations available.

Eligibility

This role is available for local candidates already authorized to work in the country. ARBEX will not provide relocation support for this role.

Equal Opportunity Employer

ARBEX is a committed equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. Statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required for this position.