Global Category Manager

ARDAGH GROUP; London; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in glass manufacturing is seeking a Global Category Manager to oversee procurement of capital equipment and manage supplier relationships at a global level. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the glass packaging industry, strong negotiation skills, and a commitment to sustainable procurement practices.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years in procurement, category management, or supply chain management.
• Experience in glass packaging is essential.
• Proven track record of driving cost savings.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement global procurement strategies.
• Identify and manage key supplier relationships.
• Conduct market analysis and risk management.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Supplier management

Education

University degree in a relevant discipline

Membership of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)

Tools

Procurement software

Job description

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This Global Category Manager post is focused on procuring capital equipment and projects for our 34 glass production facilities based in Africa (7), North America (9), and Europe (20). Capital equipment in scope includes but is not limited to: batch house; environmental management systems; furnaces and forehearths (refractories); furnace controls; forming machines; coaters; lehrs; testing equipment; conveyors; and packing equipment. Projects can range from the building and modernization of whole plants through to the acquisition of specific equipment and provision of spare parts.

Glass Packaging experience is a must have!

Reporting to the Global Category Director, the post holder must work collaboratively as part of cross functional teams developing and implementing exemplary procurement strategies at pace in line with group policies with the backing of key stakeholders. Managing supply chains and supplier relationships at global and regional level is vital to success, maximizing the value from those relationships, and securing Ardagh’s position as a customer of choice.

The post holder will have deep expertise in procuring capital equipment and projects internationally, ideally in the glass manufacturing industry, with a strategic mindset and strong delivery focus. Experience sourcing direct from major manufacturing countries such as China and India is desirable.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Strategic Procurement: Develop and implement global procurement strategies for equipment, ensuring alignment with business objectives and operational needs.
• Supplier Management: Identify, evaluate, and manage relationships with key suppliers to ensure the best value, quality, and reliability.
• Cost Optimization: Drive cost-saving initiatives through effective negotiation, supplier consolidation, and process improvements.
• Market Analysis: Conduct market research and analysis to stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscape.
• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks associated with equipment procurement, including supply chain disruptions and quality issues.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure equipment meets technical specifications and operational requirements.
• Performance Monitoring: Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track procurement effectiveness and supplier performance.
• Contract Management: Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Promote sustainable procurement practices and support the company's environmental goals
• Communicate: Share procurement strategies and policies to secure understanding and support from stakeholders at all levels.
• Exemplar global procurement strategies delivered at pace aligned to the wider Ardagh capital programme.
• Cost control and reduction.
• Strong relationships with key suppliers and service providers.
• Robust contracts that mitigate risks.
• Business continuity by securing critical supplies and services.
• Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Compliance with Ardagh’s procurement policies.

Education/ Training

• University degree in a relevant discipline
• Membership of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) or direct equivalent is highly desirable

Experience

• Glass Packaging experience.
• Minimum of 7-years of experience in procurement, category management, or supply chain management, preferably in the glass manufacturing industry.
• Strong knowledge of equipment used in glass manufacturing processes and market trends.
• Proven track record of driving cost savings and process improvements.
• Experience sourcing direct from major manufacturing countries such as China and India is desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a global, cross-functional environment
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to think globally and act locally combining strategic thinking and excellence in execution with strong accountability and responsibility for achieving results
• Adept at working in an agile project environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills (English)
• Proficiency in procurement software and tools
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to sustainability and ethical procurement practices
• Resilience and ability to prioritize when facing conflicting demands and high workload
• Comfortable travelling internationally

Key Ardagh Leadership Behaviours: Vision & Strategy, Leads Change, Customer Focused, Results Focused, Collaborates across the Organisation, Builds High Performing Teams