Packaging Procurement Specialist

Overview

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. We are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.

In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value while expanding our positive impact. It operates 11 production factories across four continents and has tea growing estates in three countries, with a presence in over 100 countries.

At Lipton Teas and Infusions, we work with diverse minds who place consumer love at the heart of every decision. We foster an environment that supports growth as leaders and a connected community where ideas can thrive. Join our blend and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.

Job Title: Packaging Procurement Specialist

Job Status: full-time, permanent

Work location: Hybrid, US East Coast, travel to Suffolk, VA and/or Hoboken, NJ

The Packaging Procurement Specialist will support development and execution of the Global Packaging Sourcing Strategy, delivering a competitive and differentiated value chain with our suppliers and internal stakeholders. This role covers cost competitiveness, innovation, quality & service and sustainability. Collaborate with key stakeholders (Factory, Supply Chain, R&I and Marketing) to transform the value chain to meet the future packaging needs for our tea products.

• Support implementation of long- and short-term supply strategies for tea packaging portfolios at the assigned site cluster level for Lipton
• Forecast prices based on local and global market trends
• Lead locally managed packaging categories, identifying sources of supply based on tender results
• Negotiate price, delivery, payment terms and contracts with current and new suppliers
• Create and run cost-saving and payment term improvement projects aligned to annual targets
• Work on programs for margin improvement (Net Material Impact) for the Tea Business
• Support global and local innovation and sustainability packaging programs
• Ensure compliance to defined procurement procedures and the Code of Business Principles in collaboration with supply partners
• Contribute to an effective, cohesive team environment with understanding of all areas of procurement
• Work with R&D teams to deliver the next generation of packaging by implementing technology and innovation agendas
• Support procurement and cross-functional teams with timely, accurate assistance on relevant topics and initiatives
• Maintain engagement with strategic and global suppliers and key business stakeholders to review/resolve relationship issues and develop future opportunities (in line with relevant programs)
• Assist in finalizing commercial agreements with Legal Counsel using the relevant contractual framework

• Supply Chain Leadership team
• Research & Innovation teams and cross-cluster global/regional SC functions
• Sustainability team
• Finance team
• Global Strategic Suppliers/Partners
• Local Suppliers / Partners
• Procurement Leadership team
• Global and market Packaging managers

• Self-starter with high accountability and responsibility standards
• Strong analytical and IT skills: advanced Excel, SAP (4
  
  HANA/Ariba) essential
• Strong stakeholder management: build relationships across functions, geographies and companies
• Strong communication and presentation skills: ability to present key findings clearly and gain buy-in
• Strong project management and organizational skills: execution-focused with proactive solutions
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, complex and ambiguous environment
• Ability to work independently and virtually
• Ideally holds a university degree
• 2-3 years’ experience in packaging procurement or supply chain
• Experience in supplier or customer relationship management
• Experience in supporting and/or managing complex projects
• Experience in managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Experience…