Sr. Global Category Lead

Avery Dennison Corporation (NYSE: AVY) is a global materials science and digital identification solutions company. We are Making Possible™ products and solutions that help advance the industries we serve, providing branding and information solutions that optimize labor and supply chain efficiency, reduce waste, advance sustainability, circularity and transparency, and better connect brands and consumers. We design and develop labeling and functional materials, radio-frequency identification (RFID) inlays and tags, software applications that connect the physical and digital, and offerings that enhance branded packaging and carry or display information that improves the customer experience. Serving industries worldwide — including home and personal care, apparel, general retail, e-commerce, logistics, food and grocery, pharmaceuticals and automotive — we employ approximately 35,000 employees in more than 50 countries. Our reported sales in 2024 were $8.8 billion. Learn more at www.averydennison.com.

AVERY DENNISON IS PROUD TO BE CERTIFIED GREAT PLACE TO WORK IN AUSTRALIA, CHINA, INDIA, INDONESIA, JAPAN, SINGAPORE, THAILAND AND VIETNAM, AND RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE BEST COMPANIES TO WORK FOR IN ASIA IN GREATER CHINA AND VIETNAM.

AVERY DENNISON IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER.

STRATEGIC PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Sr. Global Category Lead IM&S Technical Procurement is responsible for driving procurement strategic initiatives that deliver value across the organization supporting business objectives. 

The primary objective of this role is to develop and implement global sourcing strategies for the IM&S Technical Procurement categories. The role is responsible for managing supplier relationships, contract negotiations, and ensuring the delivery of cost savings and value-add initiatives partnering with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for cost-to-serve optimization and improve functional ROI, mitigate risks, and optimize supplier relationships globally.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE

1. Strategic Procurement Planning  

• Develop and implement a comprehensive global procurement strategy for technical goods and services related to printing technologies, with a specific focus on capital expenditure (Capex) items.
• Analyze market trends, industry best practices, and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and supplier optimization.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to understand business requirements and align procurement strategies with organizational goals.
• Develop and implement supplier relationship management (SRM) strategies to optimize supplier performance, mitigate risks, and drive innovation.

2. Category Management

• Lead end-to-end category management activities, including supplier selection, negotiation, and performance management, to ensure the availability of high-quality, cost-effective Capex goods and services.
• Conduct market research and supplier evaluations to identify potential suppliers, evaluate their capabilities, and establish strategic partnerships.
• Develop and maintain a robust supplier base, managing relationships, monitoring performance, and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services.
• Implement risk mitigation strategies to address potential supply chain disruptions and ensure business continuity.

3. Cost Optimization

• Drive cost optimization initiatives by identifying opportunities for process improvements, value engineering, and alternative sourcing strategies.
• Conduct comprehensive cost analysis to identify cost drivers, negotiate favorable pricing, and implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality or service levels.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, such as engineering, operations, and finance teams, to ensure alignment and maximize cost efficiencies across the organization.

4. Contract Management

• Develop and negotiate contractual agreements with suppliers, ensuring compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements.
• Review and analyze supplier contracts, terms, and conditions, and negotiate favorable commercial terms, including pricing, payment terms, and service level agreements.
• Monitor contract performance, resolve disputes, and manage contract renewals, extensions, and terminations.

5. Stakeholder Collaboration

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, operations, quality, and finance, to understand technical specifications, project requirements, and budget constraints.
• Engage with internal stakeholders to gather feedback, address concerns, and ensure effective communication throughout the procurement process.
• Provide subject matter expertise, guidance, and support to stakeholders on procurement-related matters.
• Collaborate with other procurement teams to develop and implement best practices and drive continuous improvement across the organization
• Provide leadership and direction to procurement staff, ensuring the development of a high performing team with a focus on continuous improvement.

WHAT WE WILL BE LOOKING IN FOR YOU

1. Personal Qualifications / Competencies:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, engineering, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred.
• Proven experience as a Global Category Manager or similar role, ideally with a focus on technical procurement, Capex buying, and printing technologies.
• Knowledge of printing technologies, equipment, and related supplies.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing global procurement strategies for Capex goods and services.
• Proficiency in conducting market research, cost analysis, and supplier evaluations.
• Excellent negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to think strategically and execute operational plans.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Familiarity with relevant procurement tools, systems, and technologies.
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, global environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Extensive stakeholder management experience.
• 360 degrees communication / co-ordination.
• Innovative and and able to think out of the box.
• Result and execution oriented.
• Open-minded.
• Ambitious with a strong drive.

2. Professional Qualifications / Competencies:

Functional Skills:

• Strong negotiation and contract management skills, with the ability to manage complex contracts and supplier relationships.
• Analytical drive and ability to independently perform market and industry analysis.

• Expert in conducting spend & demand analysis.
• Strong knowledge of procurement processes, systems, and best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement procurement strategies that drive value for the organization. 
• Experience with procurement technology platforms, such as eSourcing, eProcurement, and contract management systems.
• Thorough knowledge of how to assess, screen and select suppliers, including extensive usage of TCO.
• Expert in RFx development & execution and knowledge of e-procurement/e-auction development and execution.
• Solid experience in Supplier Relationship Management.
• Thorough knowledge of financial instruments and analytical tools.
• Experienced in managing risk.
• Understanding of Corporate Social Responsibility.

Other Skills:

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
  Project manager/ leadership skills both cross functional & cross culture. 
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Extensive usage of office software.
• Fluent in English language (spoken and written).
• Other language skills (spoken) will be a plus.

Experience:

• Minimum 5-8 years relevant experience within a strategic & tactical procurement organization at regional or global level.
• Proven track record of delivering cost savings and value-add initiatives.
• Experience in people management.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
• Professional procurement certification, such as CPM, CPSM, or CSCP, is preferred.

AVERY DENNISON IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or other protected status.