At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a global team in procurement, driving value and innovation across iconic brands.
- Company: Join Kimberly-Clark, home to brands like Huggies® and Kleenex®.
- Benefits: Enjoy a market-leading pension, bonus scheme, and flexible work options.
- Other info: Flexible work model blending remote and in-person collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while collaborating with diverse teams globally.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in procurement with strong leadership and strategic skills.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
Join the team behind iconic brands like Huggies®, Kleenex®, Andrex®, Scott®, Kotex®, Poise®, and Kimberly‑Clark Professional®. At Kimberly‑Clark it’s all here for you—innovation, growth, and the chance to make a real impact. You are a problem‑solver, a connector, and someone who thrives on creating order from complexity and driving continuous improvement. Your goal is to deliver Better Care for a Better World.
Role Summary
As part of Kimberly‑Clark’s International Family Care and Professional (IFP) business, you will lead the Global Direct Material Procurement categories, aligning cross‑functional stakeholders and supplier partners to drive value across the segment. You will report directly to the IFP Procurement Director and manage a global team of seven procurement professionals (excluding APAC) across Packaging, Chemicals, Adhesives & Non‑Wovens.
Responsibilities
- Lead a global team of seven Procurement professionals responsible for all direct spend (Packaging, Chemicals, Adhesives & Non‑Wovens) across all accountable business units (excluding APAC).
- Drive all Cost and Cash targets for the Direct category globally.
- Develop & manage global supplier relationships—scouting, raising supply risks/issues, providing performance feedback.
- Identify and manage execution of strategic category initiatives (e.g., innovation), design and lead strategic sourcing events & negotiations.
- Manage cross‑regional executive‑level engagement with business stakeholders on category needs and strategy.
- Develop global category strategy and execution plans based on benchmarking, supplier landscape analysis, and market dynamics.
- Collaborate with Finance and Category Managers to provide financial forecasts.
- Optimize inbound supply chains, specifications, and total delivered costs by working with manufacturing and regional category Managers.
- Ensure quality & risk management, including Supplier Code of Conduct and Social Responsibility compliance per defined internal controls and policies.
- Lead people management, including talent development, performance management, compensation planning, and organisational effectiveness.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in business, supply chain or a related discipline.
- 10+ years of procurement, supply chain or product supply experience with a demonstrated track record of leadership growth, preferably in a CPG company.
- Technical knowledge of contract negotiation strategies and global contracting nuances.
- Strong skills in diagnosing and resolving complex issues and identifying transformational opportunities.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization.
- Ability to work on a global scale and influence across cultural boundaries.
- Proven record of business results through collaboration, influence and partnership with key category managers and stakeholders.
- Highly strategic and innovative problem‑solving skills.
- General working knowledge of COUPA, MS Office and other relevant procurement tools and systems.
Travel Requirement
Requires up to 25% travel time.
Benefits
- Market‑leading pension contribution.
- Bonus scheme.
- Flexible savings and spending accounts to maximise health‑care options.
- Private medical insurance, including dental and vision coverage.
- Diverse income protection insurance options.
- Additional programs and support for education, adoption, relocation and childcare.
Flex That Works at Kimberly‑Clark
We believe great work happens when people come together with purpose. That’s why we offer a flexible work model that blends remote work with intentional in‑person collaboration—helping you connect, grow and innovate while maintaining the balance you value.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Kimberly‑Clark is a committed equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship or any other characteristic protected by law.
Additional Notes
Employment is subject to verification of local policies. This role is available for local candidates already authorised to work in this role’s country only. Kimberly‑Clark will not provide relocation support for this role.
Global Direct Materials Associate Director in Tadworth employer: Kimberly-Clark
At Kimberly-Clark, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive benefits, including market-leading pension contributions, flexible work models, and extensive support for personal development. Located in Walton Oaks, our team thrives on making a meaningful impact while enjoying a balanced work-life environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Direct Materials Associate Director in Tadworth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work at Kimberly-Clark or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just help you land that interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company culture and values. Understand how they align with your own. When you show that you’re not just a fit for the role but also for the team, you’ll stand out as a candidate who truly gets it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Since this role is all about creating order from complexity, think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve tackled challenges head-on. Be ready to share these stories during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Kimberly-Clark.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Direct Materials Associate Director in Tadworth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Global Direct Materials Associate Director role. Highlight your experience in procurement and supply chain, especially any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our mission of delivering Better Care for a Better World. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to showcase your problem-solving abilities. Share examples of how you've tackled complex issues in the past, especially in procurement or supply chain contexts. We love seeing candidates who can create order from complexity!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kimberly-Clark
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in procurement and supply chain management, especially in the context of consumer packaged goods. Brush up on your knowledge of direct materials like packaging, chemicals, and adhesives, as well as any recent trends or innovations in these areas.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a global team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share specific examples of how you've developed talent, managed performance, and driven results in previous roles. Highlight your ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect to engage in conversations about strategic sourcing and category management. Familiarise yourself with key metrics and benchmarks relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss how you would approach developing a global category strategy and executing it effectively.
✨Cultural Awareness is Key
Given the global nature of the position, demonstrate your understanding of working across cultural boundaries. Share experiences where you successfully navigated diverse teams or markets, and highlight your adaptability in different environments.
