Group Lead, Procurement – Accelerate Platforms

Job Description

Essential Functions & Responsibilities  

• ​​​Create, deliver, and execute the external innovation category strategy for Elevation and MCCS.  

• ​Execute the supplier selection process by identifying and developing suppliers capable of delivering products or services that meet or exceed KHC requirements. 

• ​Establish trust and build effective business relationships with suppliers for long-term partnerships.  

• ​Be a leader on cross-functional workstreams to deliver fit-for-purpose practices (R&D, quality, regulatory, legal, sales, etc.). 

• ​Coach teams through scaling products for concepts and ideas from incubation at small-scale pilot facilities through accelerated test market launches to full-scale factory production and national launch. 

• ​Coordinate hand-off to Category Managers after product stabilization. 

• ​Embrace an open and inclusive environment that allows continuous improvement and learning.​​ 

People Management Responsibilities 

• Team (salaried): 2 direct reports  

Expected Experience & Required Skills 

• ​​Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, operations, finance, business, or equivalent. MBA and advanced Procurement qualifications preferred. Candidates with an equivalent combination of experience or education will be considered in lieu of a degree.  

• ​5 to 7 years of experience in Procurement (i.e., Indirect, CAPEX, Ingredients, or Packaging) and five or more years of applicable business experience in the food industry (i.e., R&D, Engineering, etc.). Possess extensive experience in the complete commercialization process.  

• ​Knowledge of the commercialization requirements, ability to identify risks, and develop creative solutions to deliver end results.  

• ​Strong business and financial acumen with the ability to understand and explain Procurement results and variances to non-procurement audiences.  

• ​Experience with managing and forecasting complex portfolios and budgets. 

• ​Results-oriented, adept at solving complex challenges and dealing with ambiguity; anticipates and adjusts to problems and obstacles in the team or the organization. 

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