Sourcing Manager, Indirect Spend

The Role

The Sourcing Manager is responsible for spearheading sourcing initiatives for designated strategic and non-strategic projects, categories, materials, and services within the EMEA region. The primary aim is to secure the most favorable total cost of ownership and supply conditions for Eastman and its EMEA sites. This role emphasizes the development of in-depth market insights, driving continuous cost reductions while ensuring product quality and supplier service levels are maintained or enhanced. Additionally, the Sourcing Manager will focus on improving cash flow and will be tasked with evaluating risks and formulating effective mitigation strategies aligned with business objectives.

This role is preferably based in Rotterdam but is open to internal applicants in other Eastman locations in Belgium and Germany.

Responsibilities

• Collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure that sourcing strategies are aligned with the business's requirements.   
• Negotiation: Leading negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable terms, prices, and contracts. This often requires a deep understanding of market conditions and supplier capabilities.  
• Performance Measurement: Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess supplier performance and the effectiveness of sourcing strategies, building into contract agreements  
• Continuous Improvement: Staying informed about industry trends and best practices, implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance sourcing processes.  
• Quality Assurance: Ensuring that the products and services sourced meet the required quality standards. This may involve working closely with quality assurance teams  
• Cost Management: Monitoring and controlling procurement costs to ensure they align with the budget. Identifying opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvements. Mitigating hidden costs and risk   
• Supplier Management: Identifying, evaluating, and selecting suppliers based on quality, cost, and delivery capabilities. Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers. Looking for Synergies and efficiency opportunities   
• Contract Management: Create and ensure compliance with contracts in line with Eastman’s Icertis framework.  
• Stakeholder Engagement: Interface with key stakeholders to align sourcing strategies with business needs.  
• Effective Communication: Maintain clear communication and effective management of sourcing activities.  
• Data Management: Keep the ServiceNow system updated to reflect live data and actual workloads.  
• Strategic Sourcing: Developing and implementing sourcing strategies that align with the company's goals and objectives. This may involve market analysis and trend forecasting.  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; business, economics, technical or science, required
• 5 years of experience that encompasses procurement and sourcing responsibilities, including supplier negotiations, contract management, and strategic sourcing initiatives, including experience built in the commercial environment.
• Ability to influence, motivate, and negotiate effectively
• Fluency in English and German is required
• Data analytics skills and business intelligence gathering ability
• Dedication to delivering impactful outcomes

Competencies

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think critically and strategically about sourcing decisions and their long-term impact on the organization.  
• Strong Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey ideas, negotiate with suppliers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.  
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions, business needs, and procurement challenges.  
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address issues as they arise and find effective solutions.  
• Negotiation Skills: Competence in negotiating terms and conditions with suppliers to achieve the best outcomes for the organization.  
• Relationship Building: Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with suppliers, stakeholders, and team members to foster collaboration and trust.  
• Attention to Detail: Careful attention to detail to ensure accuracy in procurement processes, contracts, and compliance requirements.  
• Integrity and Ethics: Adherence to ethical standards and integrity in all sourcing activities, ensuring compliance with policies and regulations.  
• Leadership and Influence: Capability to lead initiatives and influence others, even without direct authority, fostering a collaborative working environment.  
• Results-Oriented Mindset: Focus on achieving goals and delivering results, demonstrating accountability for performance and outcomes.