PMO Lead Finance

Pet Nutrition (PN) is the most vibrant category in the FMCG sector. As we work to transform this exciting category, a new program, Shepherd, has been mobilized by the Mars PN leadership team. Shepherd is focused on the accelerated creation and implementation of a next generation ERP for Pet Nutrition. Much more than a simple “Lift and Shift,” this program will undertake a major process simplification and harmonization scope as we digitally transform our business.

Shepherd is focused primarily on four 'Mega Process' areas: Finance, Source to Pay (procurement and vendor mgmt.), Plan to Fulfill (manufacturing and distribution), and Lead to Cash (order processing and payment). As part of the Shepherd program, four new roles have been created to lead the project management for each of these Mega Process areas. These Senior Project Managers will operate within the Program Management team during the ERP transformation, reporting to the Global PMO Lead. These roles will be dedicated to driving the plan and success factors for this critical Pet Nutrition program. They will be accountable for driving project success for each Mega Process area, and for integrating their delivery plans, progress, risks, decisions, etc. with this ambitious and complex PN business transformation.

What are we looking for?

This is a project-based role that will conclude with the transformation program. Anticipated duration +36 months minimum.

Knowledge / Experience:

• Proven experience in Project Management, driving global/cross-functional outcomes
• Experience in Finance functional processes is desirable, ideally within Mars
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with Senior Management
• Ability to build trust and gain credibility with executives, business stakeholders and team members
• Practitioner-level PRINCE2, PMP or equivalent certifications is an advantage

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Project Management: Lead the development and execution of the delivery plan for the Finance scope of the Shepherd program; align the cross-functional team to define success criteria and build a detailed schedule with clear milestones aligned to achieving these criteria; proactively identify, assess, and manage risks, issues, and dependencies to ensure project delivery remains on track.
• Project Team Leadership: Lead project meetings, resolve cross-functional issues, and manage the project-related communication flow between all functions and levels within the program. Keep the project team energised and engaged to drive delivery.
• Project Governance: Contribute to the implementation and continuous improvement of governance standards across the Shepherd program, including Stage Gates, decision processes, and common project templates and tooling. Work with the Global PMO Lead and business partners to align and adhere to transformation governance, including financial planning and management.
• Change Management: Work closely with the Change Management Lead to build change management into plans, ensuring that human change is accounted for alongside process and systems change
• Performance Monitoring: Track and report on project performance, ensuring key milestones and deliverables are met on time, within budget, and to required quality. Log, share, and implement lessons to continuously improve delivery across the program.

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with over 140,000 diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.