Why This Role Matters:

This is a strategic, high-impact category leadership role within a newly rebranded Global Product Sourcing organization. You will own regional direct spend categories across Flavours, Coatings, Food Chemicals, Vitamins, Minerals, Botanicals, and more - acting as the regional expert and decision driver for India.

You will influence cost, innovation, supply continuity, compliance, and supplier capability, while partnering closely with R&D, Quality, Tech Ops, Regulatory, and Marketing teams globally.

What You'll Own:

As Manager - Direct Sourcing (Raw Materials), you will:

- Lead end-to-end category management for key raw material categories across India

- Drive minimum 5% YoY cost savings / cost avoidance through HMM, localization, dual sourcing, and innovation

- Be the single point of contact for supplier strategy, pricing, contracting, and long-term agreements (OTIF-based)

- Partner deeply with R&D and Flavour Houses on cost-effective, innovative flavour and ingredient solutions

- Lead supplier innovation days, technology scouting, and site audits

- Develop and execute multi-year category strategies aligned to global objectives

- Own supplier performance management (SRM), QBRs/HBRs, scorecards, and supplier development

- Drive risk mitigation plans (capacity expansion to 200%, localization, forward cover)

- Ensure FSSAI compliance in partnership with GRA and Quality teams

- Publish category dashboards and present insights to regional and global leadership

- Coach and develop 1-2 analysts in a matrix structure

What We're Looking For:

Must-Have Expertise:

- 10+ years of procurement / sourcing experience

- Minimum 7 years in Category Management or Strategic Sourcing

- Strong exposure to raw materials / ingredients / direct spend

- Proven track record of cost savings, supplier negotiations, and SRM

- Experience influencing stakeholders in a matrix, global environment

- Excellent contract negotiation and commercial acumen

Core Skills:

- Strategic sourcing & category planning

- Supplier innovation & cost transformation

- Contracting, risk mitigation & compliance

- Strong analytical, stakeholder management & executive presence

- Global mindset with cultural sensitivity

Education:

- Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Finance, Accounting, or related field

What Makes This Team Special:

- Part of a 50+ member global sourcing network

- True global category ownership, not transactional buying

- Strong focus on innovation, scale, and value creation

- Opportunity to shape next-generation sourcing strategies globally

- High visibility role with cross-functional and senior leadership exposure