For the recruitment of this position, we would like to emphasize that local conditions apply to the position and for this vacancy in principle we will consider candidates based in the set locations. If you are based outside of these locations and you are interested to apply, please feel free to do so but at this stage we will not take your application forward. We will only consider your application if a decision is made to also recruit outside of the set locations.
Please be aware if you are applying for this role from outside China, while location of the role is China, if successful, your internal application will be treated as a self-initiated Change Location Outside of Country (CLOC) transfer.
You will be eligible for relocation support in the form of economy-class flights (to China), immigration support (if applicable).
Description
Role Name: Procurement Manager LAB/LAS - North Asia & SEAA
Level: 2C
Location: Shanghai, China
Travel: 25%
Top level summary:
This is a unique opportunity to lead a fundamental shift in how some of the world’s most iconic cleaning and laundry brands are sourced and formulated. As a critical driver of Unilever’s sustainability agenda, you will play a pivotal role in transforming the supply chain to meet ambitious decarbonization and circular economy targets. We are seeking a visionary leader, adept at building strategic partnerships, to guide our Petrochemicals team through this industry-defining change. If you are passionate about sustainability and driving large-scale transformation, this is the role for you.
Context:
Unilever’s future growth and reputation are intrinsically linked to our ability to execute the Compass strategy at speed. Our commitment to sustainability is evolving from a goal to an imperative, as we embed circular economy principles into every aspect of our business. The “Clean Future” initiative is at the heart of this, aimed at decarbonizing our product formulations by reducing reliance on virgin fossil fuels in our chemical ingredients.
The transformation of our Petrochemicals portfolio is central to this vision. As the lead for LAB/LAS—a €1 Bn+ global surfactant portfolio—you will drive the transition from traditional fossil fuel-based sourcing to innovative, sustainable alternatives. This role is critical to realizing Unilever’s net-zero ambitions, reshaping the supply chain, and pioneering a new era in home care products. You will lead industry transformation by forging partnerships, developing new sourcing strategies, and aligning with cutting-edge technologies, ensuring Unilever remains at the forefront of sustainability in the consumer goods sector.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead Sustainable Sourcing Strategy: Develop and execute the sourcing strategy for LAB/LAS (SEAA & North Asia) valued at €250M, ensuring alignment with sustainability and decarbonization goals.Build Strategic Partnerships: Establish and maintain key relationships with suppliers and technology providers to drive innovation and sustainability across the supply chain.Business Development: Drive joint business development initiatives with strategic partners to ensure long-term growth and competitive advantage, while aligning with Unilever’s Clean Future and net-zero agendas.Market Strategy & Supply Chain Transformation: Provide strategic market insights and support the Home Care division’s supply chain transformation, addressing local and regional requirements in partnership with market teams.Decarbonization Leadership: Lead the transition of LAB/LAS sourcing from fossil fuel-based origins, contributing to Unilever’s broader sustainability targets, including GHG emission reductions and clean energy adoption.Program Management: Create a multi-year delivery plan for the transformation of the supply chain, optimizing end-to-end operations and leveraging global best practices to identify opportunities.Forecasting & Analytics: Deliver accurate market forecasts for pricing and supply chain performance, while simplifying complex data into actionable insights for stakeholders.Cross-Functional Engagement: Collaborate with key stakeholders across the business to drive strategic initiatives such as the Home Care Surfactant Strategy, GHG Emission Reduction Roadmap, and Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) efforts.Team Leadership: Mentor and guide a senior assistant manager, fostering a culture of professional growth and high performance.Qualifications:
Procurement Expertise: Proven procurement experience, preferably in the chemicals sector, with a deep understanding of strategic sourcing, contracting strategies, and supplier partnerships.Sustainability Focus: A passion for sustainability and a proven track record of leading initiatives that drive environmental and social impact in supply chains.Global Business Acumen: Extensive international business experience, with a proactive approach to identifying and developing opportunities in global markets.Negotiation & Relationship Building: Strong negotiation skills and a talent for building and maintaining supplier relationships, with cultural sensitivity and a global perspective.Leadership & Team Development: A people-first leader with exceptional interpersonal skills, capable of driving results while nurturing team growth and development.Results-Oriented: A drive for results, with a focus on achieving ambitious targets and making a tangible impact on Unilever’s sustainability agenda.Unilever is an organisation committed to equity, inclusion and diversity to drive our business results and create a better future, every day, for our diverse employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. At Unilever we are interested in every individual bringing their ‘Whole Self’ to work and this includes you! Thus if you require any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application so that we can support you through your recruitment journey.