Director of Purchasing

Director Of PurchasingAppleton, WI (on-site)$160,000 + bonusOur client, a global leader in the pulp and paper industry, is seeking a Director of Purchasing to lead strategic and operational procurement execution across North America. This role owns cost savings, on-time delivery, supplier quality, and productivity KPIs while serving as a member of the North American leadership team.Required QualificationsProven procurement experience, including a leadership roleBachelor's degree with a technical or business majorStrong coaching, developing, mentoring, and leadership skillsStrategic mindset with ability to develop and execute differentiated plans that deliver financial resultsStrong customer centricity and communication skillsAction-oriented with strong attention to detailFamiliarity with MRP/ERP systems and data analytics tools, including SAP and Power BIAbility to run queries and compile data for data-driven decisionsDay-to-Day ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement a regional procurement strategy aligned with overall group strategy for cost-effective, timely, high-quality sourcingOversee the NA procurement team, ensuring focus on safety, cost competitiveness, OTD, supplier quality, and productivity KPIsLead and manage tough purchasing negotiations, including frame agreements, major purchase order releases, and quality/back-charge negotiationsImplement an effective regional Supply Chain Management program in partnership with the NA Logistics/GBS groupDrive alignment of procurement activities within NA and across divisions for consistent sourcing strategiesLead and mentor procurement team members to improve individual and team performancePromote a culture of ownership, teamwork, respect, and customer centricity; drive continuous improvementEnsure compliance with People & Culture policies and support an engaging work environmentPartner with sales, applications, operations, product, and project management to align on customer needsLead major transformation initiatives, including automation, digitalization, and process redesignChampion safety in all activitiesStand, walk, and sit frequently throughout the day; occasionally reach, lift, stoop, or crouchOccasional domestic and international travel requiredOur client operates as part of a global organization with a strong emphasis on ownership, teamwork, respect, and customer centricity. The company invests in leadership development and continuous improvement, and this role sits on the North American leadership team with direct visibility into strategic decision-making.