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- Tasks: Lead global sourcing strategies and manage supplier relationships to optimise cost and quality.
- Company: Zotefoams plc is a leading innovator in cellular material technology with a global presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, professional growth opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Join a fast-growing company that values innovation, collaboration, and making a positive impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, ideally in technical manufacturing; strong communication and analytical skills required.
- Other info: Zotefoams promotes diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, with facilities in Croydon, UK; Kentucky and Oklahoma, USA; Brzeg, Poland; and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT).
We produce lightweight foams for a wide range of markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive, and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and supplies advanced insulation systems.
The Company is on a strong growth trajectory, with significant revenue and profitability increases in recent years and ambitious plans for the future.
About the Role:
The Global Commodity Manager for Direct Raw Materials will lead the sourcing strategy for all key polymers, resins and chemical inputs used across our manufacturing operations. This role is central to ensuring the business has secure, cost competitive and high quality raw materials that support sustainability goals and product innovation.
You will manage a global supplier portfolio, negotiate long term strategic agreements and work closely with R&D, operations and supply chain to ensure material specifications and supply continuity align with business needs.
Role Responsibilities:
• Develop and deliver global sourcing strategies for raw materials including polymers, foaming agents, additives and chemical inputs.
• Build strong partnerships with global suppliers to drive innovation, quality and cost efficiency.
• Monitor global commodity markets and lead cost analysis, identifying risks and cost drivers.
• Negotiate long term supply agreements that ensure price stability and mitigate supply risks.
• Work closely with operations and quality teams to ensure materials meet technical and manufacturing requirements.
• Support new product development through alignment of material specifications with R&D and technical teams.
• Identify and manage supply chain risks including material shortages, geopolitical exposure and logistics constraints.
• Track supplier performance against KPIs including OTIF, quality, cost savings and innovation contribution.
What you\’ll need:
Qualifications & Knowledge
• Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or Business.
• CIPS qualification or equivalent preferred.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes within plastics, polymers or chemical sectors.
• Knowledge of global raw material markets, supply chains, logistics and import/export.
Experience
• 7+ years\’ experience in strategic procurement or commodity management within raw materials or plastics manufacturing.
• Proven track record negotiating large volume global supply contracts.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems and managing supplier performance.
Skills
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation capability.
• Excellent analytical skills with a data driven approach to decision making.
• Confident communicating across technical and commercial teams.
• Collaborative, proactive and adaptable in a fast moving global environment.
What were looking for?
• Someone with deep raw materials knowledge who can think strategically and commercially.
• A strong influencer who can build credible relationships with global suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• A problem solver with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Someone who can balance cost, supply continuity, sustainability and innovation effectively.
Why Join Us?
At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
Our Values
Courage – The courage to take bold action to ensure that we succeed in tackling our challenges and opportunities.
Impact – Dedicated to making a significant and positive impact in everything we do.
Respect – Cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and collaboration is encouraged.
Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees
Global Commodity Manager employer: Zotefoams
Contact Detail:
Zotefoams Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Commodity Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Zotefoams' products and technologies. Understanding their lightweight foams and the specific markets they serve will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show how you can contribute to their growth.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement and sourcing fields, especially those with experience in technical manufacturing environments. Engaging with industry peers can provide insights into best practices and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on global market trends related to commodities, particularly in plastics and foam. Being able to discuss current price shifts and supply risks will position you as a knowledgeable candidate who can make informed sourcing decisions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing supplier relationships and negotiations. Highlight any successful cost reduction initiatives you've led, as this aligns directly with the responsibilities of the Global Commodity Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Commodity Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Global Commodity Manager position at Zotefoams. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in procurement and global sourcing, especially in technical manufacturing environments. Emphasise any achievements related to cost optimisation, supplier management, and cross-functional collaboration.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Zotefoams' values and how your background aligns with their goals. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or led cost reduction initiatives in the past.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, be sure to emphasise skills that are particularly relevant to the role, such as negotiation, data analysis, and familiarity with MRP/ERP systems. This will demonstrate your capability to contribute effectively to their procurement team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zotefoams
✨Understand the Company and Its Products
Before your interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of Zotefoams and its product offerings. Familiarise yourself with their lightweight foams and the markets they serve, such as automotive and healthcare. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and how your skills align with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Procurement Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in procurement and global sourcing, especially in technical manufacturing environments. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully developed sourcing strategies or managed supplier relationships, as this will directly relate to the role of Global Commodity Manager.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Since the role requires a commercially minded and analytical approach, be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform decision-making in past roles. Bring examples of how you've tracked KPIs or driven continuous improvement initiatives, as this will showcase your ability to contribute to Zotefoams' growth.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally. Prepare examples that illustrate your proactive and solutions-focused mindset, as well as your experience in leading or mentoring teams. This will help you convey that you're not only a fit for the role but also a good cultural match for Zotefoams.
