Niederanven, Luxembourg, Luxembourg
Experienced Global Procurement Category Manager specialized in Dairy Ingredients at Ferrero. Responsible for developing and executing the sourcing strategy for milk and milk derivatives. I collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to drive comprehensive and effective sourcing practices. As a former Group Internal Auditor with a background in financial auditing, I am experienced in conducting procurement audits and providing valuable recommendations for process improvements.
As the Global Dairy Ingredients Category Manager, my main focus is to develop and execute the sourcing strategy for Fresh Pasteurized Milk, Whey Powder, Lactose, and other milk derivatives for Ferrero, with emphasis on the European market. While overseeing the European operations, I am also Accountable for coordinating the purchasing strategy and providing market insights to all other local teams worldwide. This includes guiding them in aligning their sourcing activities with the global strategy, also suggesting potential suppliers as needed, and supporting their onboarding process. Within this scope, I collaborate closely with key internal stakeholders from various functions such as R&D, quality, operations, finance, supply chain planning, compliance, and legal. Together, we align on objectives and priorities to ensure a comprehensive and effective approach to sourcing. Leading the tendering, negotiation and financial hedging processes, my aim is to secure optimal pricing, establish long-term relationships with suppliers, and ensure the availability of milk ingredients for our plants. Additionally, I am responsible for allocating volumes, tracking consumption, monitoring market trends, coordinating Responsible Sourcing activities and driving projects related to the dairy ingredient categories.
In my role, I have undertaken various tasks to assess and enhance the functioning of the organization. Specifically, I have conducted assessments of the organization's governance, risk management, and internal control processes, identifying and reporting on issues and risks. Moreover, I have provided recommendations on how to effectively address the identified risks, thereby promoting best practices within the organization. Additionally, I have played a supportive role in specific projects where Group Internal Audit has provided advisory services. I have ensured compliance with the Audit Manual and Standards of the Institute of Internal Auditors throughout my assignments. One of my significant achievements includes successfully completing five procurement audits, with a focus on three audits specifically targeting raw materials procurement. These audits involved identifying key risks and conducting follow-up reviews to ensure the completion of agreed-upon actions. Furthermore, I have played a crucial role in maintaining an up-to-date Risks-library, incorporating insights from each engagement to enhance risk management practices. I have also contributed to the planning process for each audit, including drafting the Audit Planning Memorandum. Finally, I have prepared comprehensive Audit Reports that effectively communicate findings, recommendations, and best practices to drive improvements in the audited processes.
Experienced in Project Management, successfully leading teams on projects related to Stand Alone and Group Operational Companies with yearly turnovers up to 20 BLN EUR. Skilled in introducing and coaching new team members on audit standards, tests, and guidelines to ensure clear documentation of analysis performed and conclusions reached. Constantly in contact with management and clients as well as PwC offices worldwide to foster audit synergies on Global clients.
Conducted audit tests and financial analysis, meticulously documenting the work performed and findings. Regularly in contact with multiple banks for cash and banking analysis. Maintained regular communication with management and provided daily updates to clients regarding the work performed and any potential issues identified.