Growth & Innovations Manager - UFS SC

Localization Projects

• Lead the design and execution of KSA localization program to build resilient, cost-effective, and market-responsive supply networks, as well as support with GMEA localization initiatives.
• Ensure factory readiness, local sourcing strategies, and compliance with regional regulatory and quality standards.
• Support risk mitigation and capability building to enable successful localization rollouts
• Drive cross-functional alignment with Procurement, R&D, Finance, and Marketing to ensure seamless execution.
• Monitor and report on project milestones, risks, and KPIs to senior leadership.
• Liaise with regulatory teams and local authorities to ensure all localization initiatives meet legal, safety, and compliance requirements Innovation & Growth Enablement
• Lead the UFS SC workstream for innovation projects in KSA and support GMEA cross functional innovation teams, ensuring OTIF delivery and supply readiness. - Own the end-to-end supply chain network planning & execution of innovation projects, ensuring On-Time In-Full delivery and seamless markets deployment. - Act as the central point of coordination between cross-functional teams across the region including R&D, Marketing, Procurement, and Finance to align supply chain readiness with business objectives. - Monitor project milestones, manage risks, and provide regular updates to senior stakeholders to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Embed agile ways of working to accelerate innovation deployment. Strategy Development & Execution
• Lead the development of the KSA supply network.
• Support with the development of the GMEA SC strategic roadmap in alignment with business growth ambitions.
• Help translating global and regional priorities into actionable SC initiatives, with a focus on innovation enablement and localization.
• Enhance communications with BGs and local MCOs to ensure strategic alignment and execution excellence. Performance Management
• Track key SC KPIs across the region (e.g., service, cost, obsoletes..etc).
• Drive continuous improvement through data-driven insights and benchmarking.
• Lead monthly performance reviews with key stakeholders and escalate risks proactively. WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO SUCCEED
• Ability to lead complex, cross-functional projects in a matrixed environment.
• Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills.
• Deep understanding of supply chain networks, innovation processes, and localization levers.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Experience working across diverse geographies and cultures. Experiences & Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Supply Chain.
• APICS and PMP certifications are a plus
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in supply chain strategy, planning, innovation, or operations, preferably within FMCG.
• Proven track record of leading complex, cross-functional projects in a matrixed and multicultural environment.
• Experience working across diverse geographies and governance models, especially in BG-led and One Unilever countries.
• Demonstrated ability to manage stakeholder relationships across R&D, Marketing, Procurement, Finance, and Regulatory Affairs.
• Exposure to localization initiatives, including factory readiness, sourcing strategy, and regulatory compliance
• Proficient in both Arabic & English
• Proficiency in MS Project. Skills
• Project Management: Ability to lead complex, cross-functional innovation and localization projects from concept to execution, ensuring OTIF delivery and stakeholder alignment.
• Strategic Thinking: Strong capability to align supply chain strategies with business growth objectives across diverse markets.
• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication and collaboration skills to engage with internal teams (R&D, Marketing, Procurement, Finance) and external partners.
• Analytical Skills: Competence in analyzing KPIs, risk factors, and performance metrics to drive continuous improvement and informed decision-making.
• Supply Chain Expertise: Deep understanding of supply chain operations, factory readiness, sourcing strategies, and capability building.
• Adaptability: Comfort working in a dynamic, multicultural environment with varied governance models and market conditions.
  
  

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