Packaging Material Senior Buyer – EMEA Region

at  Irca Group

Company: IRCA Group is a leading international B2B provider of semi-finished ingredients for the bakery, pastry, and gelato markets. Our products cater to independent producers as well as large food manufacturers. We produce chocolate, decorations, creams, inclusions, pastry mixes, gelato ingredients, and other bakery/pastry essentials. Headquartered in Italy, IRCA Group boasts a strong track record of growth over the past decade, with 22 manufacturing facilities all over the world, 2000+ employee and €1 billion of revenues.
What we offer: IRCA fosters a dynamic environment, embracing diversity and valuing diverse perspectives and international experiences, offering a stimulating context. We promote professional growth by providing tailor-made development programs and career advancement opportunities locally and internationally. With locations worldwide, we offer the chance to work on international projects, collaborate across cultures, and gain a global perspective. Joining our team means becoming part of a global community of passionate professionals dedicated to making a difference. If you are looking for stimulating challenges and the chance to contribute your ideas for process improvement in an ever-growing company, IRCA is the right place.
Purpose of Position: We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Packaging Material Senior Buyer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for managing the EMEA packaging spend across multiple divisions (IRCA, SWEET, Cesarin, Dobla) in close cooperation with the local procurement teams. Your primary focus will be on optimizing procurement processes and strategies to drive cost efficiencies and enhance supplier relationships, ensuring the Group’s packaging requirements are met with high-quality and sustainable solutions.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Education: Degree in Engineering, Economics, Logistics or other business-related focus.
• Professional Skills: Advanced knowledge of material technologies, packaging categories, sourcing and/or procurement.
• Experience: 7+ years of experience in purchasing roles in international (multi-sites) B2B manufacturing companies, possibly within food sector.
• Language Skills: Italian and English language knowledge are mandatory. French / German language knowledge is a highly appreciated.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially with Excel.
• Behavioral Requirements: flexible, able to connect with the internal stakeholders, Team player, self-motivated, Achievement oriented.
• Other: Based close to Gallarate. Willingness to travel across EU sites if necessary (10/20% of the time).
  We welcome applications from candidates of all genders, backgrounds, identities, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, parental responsibilities, age, religion, or belief. We believe in equal opportunities for all and ensure that our hiring process complies with the highest standards of non-discrimination and inclusivity. IRCA Group is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone can be their authentic selves, reach their full potential, and feel a true sense of belonging. Join us in creating a workplace where diversity is valued, and everyone can thrive.
  Il presente annuncio è rivolto ai candidati dell’uno e dell’altro sesso ai sensi del D.lgs. 198/2006 e ai candidati appartenenti a qualsiasi genere, nel rispetto dei principi di diversità e inclusione e di non discriminazione

• EMEA Packaging Spend Management: Oversee and manage the EMEA packaging spend, working collaboratively with local procurement teams to align strategies and achieve Group objectives.
• Supplier Scouting and Selection: Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to meet the Group’s packaging needs, ensuring alignment with quality, cost, and sustainability goals.
• Negotiation: Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure optimal terms, including pricing, lead times, and service levels, while fostering strong and long-term partnerships.
• Spend Rationalization and Consolidation: Develop and implement strategies to rationalize and consolidate the Group’s EMEA packaging spend, driving cost savings and operational efficiencies.
• Market Analysis: Conduct regular market research and trend analysis to stay informed about innovations, cost drivers, and supply chain risks in the packaging sector.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with internal stakeholders, including R&D, quality, operations, and marketing teams, to align packaging solutions with business requirements.