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- Tasks: Lead global sourcing strategies and manage supplier relationships to optimise cost and quality.
- Company: Zotefoams plc is a leader in cellular material technology, driving innovation across various industries.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, professional growth opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Why this job: Join a fast-growing company that values collaboration, impact, and continuous improvement.
- 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, headquartered in Croydon, UK, with additional manufacturing sites in Kentucky, USA and Brzeg, Poland, Oklahoma, USA (foam products manufacture and conversion) and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT). We produce lightweight foams for various markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and sells advanced insulation systems. The Company is on a fast growth path, with strong revenue and profitability growth in recent years and ambitious growth plans for the near future.
About the Role: We are seeking an experienced Global Commodity Manager to join our Procurement team on a hybrid basis, with one or two days per week based at our Croydon HQ. This is a strategic role focused on developing and executing global sourcing strategies across key commodity areas, with a strong emphasis on cost optimisation, supply continuity and supplier development. You’ll play a central role in our supply chain operations, working cross-functionally to ensure our sourcing approach supports wider business objectives.
Role Responsibilities:
- Lead the development of global commodity strategies to optimise cost, quality, and supply chain resilience.
- Manage and develop a global supplier base aligned with the company’s long-term goals.
- Drive cost reduction initiatives through negotiations, alternate sourcing and process improvement.
- Oversee supplier relationships to enhance innovation, capability, and sustainability.
- Manage long-term contracts across multiple regions, ensuring value and performance.
- Monitor global market trends, including price shifts and supply risks, to inform sourcing decisions.
- Collaborate closely with engineering, operations, and finance teams.
- Lead risk mitigation planning for supplier disruptions and market volatility.
- Define and track KPIs to drive continuous improvement.
- Lead and mentor a small team, sharing best practices and market insight.
What you’ll need:
- A strong foundation in procurement and global sourcing, with experience ideally gained in sectors such as plastics, resin, foam, or other technical manufacturing environments.
- A technical background or relevant qualification (Engineering or Materials Science preferred, though not essential).
- Confidence in managing supplier relationships across different regions and negotiating commercial agreements.
- Familiarity with MRP/ERP systems and the ability to interpret and work with data to support decision-making.
- A commercially minded and analytical approach, with a focus on continuous improvement and value creation.
- An understanding of international trade, including aspects of import/export, is beneficial.
- Previous exposure to leading or mentoring others would be advantageous, but we welcome applications from those looking to take that next step.
What we’re looking for:
- Excellent communicator who can engage stakeholders and suppliers at all levels.
- Proactive and solutions-focused, able to work both independently and in teams.
- Well-organised and methodical with strong attention to detail.
- Entrepreneurial spirit and a drive for continuous improvement.
- Comfortable working in a technical, manufacturing environment.
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 their applications in various industries. Understanding the specific materials and technologies they use will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement and sourcing fields, especially those who have 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 foams. Being knowledgeable about current price shifts and supply risks will demonstrate your proactive approach and analytical mindset during discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing supplier relationships and negotiations. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully driven cost reductions or improved supplier performance, as this will resonate well with the role's responsibilities.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Commodity Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and global sourcing, particularly in sectors like plastics or technical manufacturing. Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements in cost optimisation and supplier management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Zotefoams' values and how your skills align with their needs. Emphasise your proactive approach and ability to drive continuous improvement within a team.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your familiarity with MRP/ERP systems and your analytical skills. Mention any experience you have in leading teams or mentoring others, as this is a key aspect of the role.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is crucial for this role, provide examples of how you've successfully engaged stakeholders and suppliers at various levels. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a collaborative environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Zotefoams
✨Understand the Company and Its Products
Before your interview, make sure to research Zotefoams and its range of products. Familiarise yourself with their cellular material technology and the markets they serve. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and how your skills align with their goals.
✨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 be crucial for the Global Commodity Manager role.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Since the role requires a commercially minded and analytical approach, come ready to discuss how you've used data to inform decision-making in past roles. You might want to prepare examples of how you've tracked KPIs or driven cost reduction initiatives through analysis.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to lead and mentor a team, as well as your communication skills. Think of situations where you've engaged stakeholders or resolved conflicts, and be ready to share these experiences to illustrate your fit for the role.
