Role Overview for Head of Procurement Strategy with a Global Manufacturer – Atlanta, GA
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, is proud to partner with a world-leading global manufacturer in their search for a visionary and transformative Head of Procurement Strategy. Based in the vibrant business hub of Atlanta, GA, this executive leadership role is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of a multi-billion dollar global supply chain. Our client is an industry titan, renowned for innovation, quality, and a commitment to sustainable growth. They are seeking a strategic leader who can architect and execute a world-class procurement function that not only drives significant cost savings but also serves as a critical enabler of business strategy, innovation, and competitive advantage.
Reporting directly to the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), the Head of Procurement Strategy will be responsible for the global architecture of all strategic sourcing and procurement activities. This is not merely an operational role; it is a strategic one that requires a forward-thinking mindset to anticipate market shifts, leverage emerging technologies, and build a resilient, agile, and ethical supply base. You will lead a high-performing team of category managers and procurement professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, data-driven decision-making, and strategic partnership. The ideal candidate will be a master of navigating complex, matrixed organizations, influencing C-suite stakeholders, and translating high-level business objectives into actionable procurement strategies that deliver tangible results to the bottom line. This role offers the unique chance to leave a lasting legacy on a global scale, fundamentally transforming how the organization sources materials, manages supplier relationships, and mitigates supply chain risk in an increasingly volatile world.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Procurement Strategy with a Global Manufacturer – Atlanta, GA
The Head of Procurement Strategy will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Global Strategy Development & Execution
Design, implement, and continuously refine the global procurement strategy, ensuring alignment with overall corporate objectives, financial targets, and long-range plans. Develop multi-year roadmaps for key commodity and indirect spend categories.
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
Lead the development and execution of comprehensive category management strategies across all direct and indirect spend. Drive the strategic sourcing process, from market analysis and supplier identification to negotiation and contract execution, to achieve optimal value.
Cost Optimization & Value Creation
Champion initiatives to deliver significant and sustainable cost reductions and value improvements. Move beyond traditional price negotiations to unlock value through demand management, specification optimization, and total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis.
Supplier Relationship Management (SRM)
Develop and implement a robust SRM framework to cultivate strategic partnerships with key suppliers. Establish performance metrics (KPIs), conduct regular business reviews, and drive supplier-led innovation to foster collaboration and mutual growth.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a global team of procurement professionals. Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and professional growth. Build organizational capability through targeted training, coaching, and strategic hiring.
Risk Management & Supply Chain Resilience
Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate supply chain risks, including geopolitical instability, supplier financial distress, and logistical disruptions. Develop and implement strategies to enhance supply chain resilience and ensure business continuity.
Digital Transformation & Analytics
Drive the adoption of cutting-edge procurement technologies, including e-sourcing platforms, spend analytics tools, and contract lifecycle management systems. Leverage data analytics to provide actionable insights and improve strategic decision-making.
Sustainability & ESG Initiatives
Integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria into the procurement process. Champion supplier diversity programs and develop strategies to create a more sustainable and ethical supply chain.
Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration
Build strong, collaborative relationships with key internal stakeholders across Finance, Operations, R&D, Legal, and regional business units. Act as a trusted advisor to the business on all procurement-related matters.
Performance Management & Reporting
Establish and monitor key performance indicators for the procurement function. Provide regular, transparent reporting to the executive leadership team on savings, project status, and risk mitigation efforts.
Requirements for the Head of Procurement Strategy with a Global Manufacturer – Atlanta, GA
We are seeking a seasoned and accomplished leader with a proven track record of success in complex, global environments. The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of strategic acumen, operational excellence, and inspirational leadership.
Required Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Finance, or a related field.
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, and supply chain management, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity managing global teams.
- Demonstrable experience within a large-scale, global manufacturing organization is essential.
- Proven track record of developing and executing global procurement strategies that have resulted in significant cost savings, risk mitigation, and value creation.
- Exceptional negotiation skills and experience managing multi-million dollar contracts with a global supply base.
- Deep expertise in category management, strategic sourcing methodologies, and modern procurement principles.
- Strong financial acumen and analytical skills, with the ability to build compelling business cases and leverage data to drive decisions.
- Outstanding leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels of the organization, including the C-suite.
Preferred Qualifications:
- An MBA or other advanced degree is highly preferred.
- Professional certification such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS).
- Experience leading a digital transformation within a procurement function, including the implementation of P2P, S2P, or ERP systems (e.g., SAP Ariba, Coupa, Oracle).
- Experience with M&A integration from a procurement perspective.
- International work experience and multilingual abilities are a significant plus.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. As a key member of the executive team, you can expect:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus and long-term incentive plan (equity/stock options).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with wellness programs and robust mental health support.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) plan with a substantial company match to help you secure your financial future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the Atlanta area.
Professional Development
A significant budget for continuous learning, including executive coaching, industry conferences, and advanced certifications.
Work-Life Balance
A commitment to a healthy work-life integration, with a hybrid work model available.
Additional Perks
Employee discount programs, life and disability insurance, and other executive-level perquisites.
How to Apply
If you are a visionary procurement leader ready to make a global impact, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. JRG Partners is managing this executive search exclusively on behalf of our client. To be considered, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and strategic accomplishments.
JRG Partners is a leader in connecting exceptional talent with transformative opportunities. To learn more about our expertise in this area, please visit our Supply Chain & Operations Executive Search practice page. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
