Senior Associate, Direct Materials Procurement

Belgrade

Supply Chain and Procurement

On-site 3-5 Years Of Professional Experience

Short Description

On behalf of our client, Philip Morris International, we are looking for motivated candidates for the position of Senior Associate, Direct Materials Procurement.

This position involves leading the procurement of Direct Materials to ensure reliable and uninterrupted supply in line with PMI requirements and evolving market conditions. The role is responsible for implementing global category strategies and regional procurement activities, from supplier selection and sourcing through contract negotiation and management, with a focus on supply security and flexibility, cost efficiency, sustainability, and responsible sourcing.

Description

Implement global and regional DIM category strategies and optimal sourcing models aligned with business needs, market trends, material availability and optimal total cost of ownership (TCO). Use internal and external data and work closely with the global DIM team (OC), supporting tenders with volume projections, commercial terms, demand, logistics and portfolio development
Manage suppliers from onboarding and qualification through performance monitoring and continuous improvement, in line with category strategies and PMI requirements. Establish a governance model and KPIs for supply chain, quality, capacity, sustainability and compliance
Proactively assess supply continuity risks and implement mitigation measures. Develop, align and test business continuity plans for critical materials, ensuring readiness for activation following approval
Ensure compliance with laws and PMI standards, policies and procedures. Lead contract negotiations and monitor contract execution in accordance with established governance processes
Identify, develop and implement pricing and productivity initiatives across regional and global categories. Continuously optimize sourcing models, systems, processes and supplier capabilities to increase efficiency, reduce costs and improve value delivery
Independently identify and lead optimization of DIM materials, specifications and processes in cooperation with Quality, Product Development, Central Material Requirements Planning and the DIM OC team. Promote standardization, simplification and cost-efficient solutions
Provide timely and accurate DIM data on material prices, productivity and SVC impact, together with strategic and operational support to Finance, factories, product development and deployment, Quality and the PMI Operations Center
Drive implementation of PMI sustainability programs through effective supplier collaboration and engagement. Embed Responsible Sourcing Principles in supplier management by clearly communicating applicable process, performance and compliance requirements
Build and maintain effective relationships with internal stakeholders, align priorities and actions

Requirements

University degree in Economics, Engineering, Finance, Supply Chain Management or a related field.
Minimum 2 years of professional experience in procurement, purchasing, supply chain or a related function, preferably within a multinational environment.
Experience in strategic sourcing, category management, supplier relationship management, negotiations and supplier performance management.
Experience in SAP would be considered as advantage
Upper-intermediate English proficiency, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills
Good negotiation and data-analysis skills