Planning and Purchasing Specialist

Purpose of the Role

Cook up and orchestrate all planning and purchasing activities pertaining to material requirements. Manage and consistently refine short- and long-term Material Requirements Planning (MRP) processes, encompassing supplier forecasts, purchase order placements, price and material master data upkeep, and the oversight of safety stock and shelf life.

Areas Of Responsibility

• Execute and orchestrate non-tobacco and tobacco components' short, mid, and long-term material requirements planning based on market requirements, specifications, New Product Development (NPD) plans, inventory targets, sourcing, lead times, optimal lot sizes, and transport unit load factors, materials shelf life, etc.
• Continuously scrutinize and optimize materials requirements and inventory turnover. Ensure minimal materials write-offs.
• Ensure prompt and precise material purchasing by managing order confirmations, expedite purchase orders, monitor deliveries, handle material defects, resolve invoice and goods receipt issues, and preserve relevant SAP data.
• Collaborate with internal teams and suppliers to sustain uninterrupted procurement and payment processes, manage transportation costs, and guarantee shipping documents comply with customs regulations.
• Manage Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tasks, process material readiness for new launches/machinery run-ability, analyse specifications, and propose cost optimization strategies. Support all global and local Non-Tobacco Materials (NTM) projects and tests, their implementation, and coordination within the factory.
• Support respective factory functions in achieving materials inventory targets and reducing inventories through seeking opportunities with suppliers, such as vendor-managed inventory or kanban ordering systems. Ensure timely addressing of defective raw materials to suppliers and the execution of corrective and preventive actions by suppliers.
• Organize suppliers' technical visits when necessary to assist production. Ensure timely documentation and completion of the Defective NTM procedure.
• Drive continuous improvement across the area while maintaining accurate SAP material master data and completing planning activities within the monthly Integrated Business Planning (IBP) cycle.
• Perform all responsibilities safely and in full compliance with JTI policies, EHS requirements, labor laws, internal procedures, ISO standards, and 5S3R principles, supporting the factory's Zero Lost Time Injury (LTI) objective.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience Required

• University degree, preferably in Economics, with at least two years of experience in a planning function; cross-functional exposure is advantageous.
• Fluency in both written and spoken English, coupled with strong communication, organizational, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and working knowledge of SAP.
• A flexible and adaptable demeanor, comfortable adjusting to shifting operational priorities.

Benefits

• Annual Performance-based Bonus
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Personal Development Programs
• Medical, Dental & Vision Plan for employees & family members
• Life insurance
• Matching 401(K)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Family Leave (20 weeks)
• Education/Tuition Assistance
• Volunteering Activities
• Employee Assistance Program (counselling, for employees & family members)