Purchasing Team Lead

About Zespri

Zespri is the world’s foremost marketer of kiwifruit, operating in over 50 countries. With a network of around 2,800 New Zealand and 1,500 international growers and post-harvest companies, Zespri is committed to delivering premium kiwifruit and sustainability across the supply chain. The company emphasizes long-term value creation for its growers and communities globally.

Role Overview

The Purchasing Team Lead position is a 12-month fixed-term contract within a global scope, reporting directly to the Group Shared Services Manager. This role involves leading and overseeing Zespri's global purchasing operations, covering Direct, Indirect, and Intercompany Purchase Orders. The team lead is responsible for ensuring compliance, control, and efficiency in the entire purchase order lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Govern and lead the global purchasing processes spanning all purchase order categories.
• Manage the complete purchase order lifecycle to maintain rigorous controls, compliance, and streamline processes.
• Supervise global purchasing card and expense management, including reconciliation, reporting, and providing user support.
• Produce month-end and year-end purchasing accruals and reconciliations to support precise financial reporting.
• Track aged purchase orders and credit card transactions, collaborating with stakeholders to resolve issues promptly.
• Deliver global training initiatives and act as a subject matter expert on purchasing systems, policies, and processes.
• Coach and develop a Purchasing Officer while spearheading continuous improvements in the Purchase-to-Pay cycle.

Candidate Profile

• Experience in purchasing, finance shared services, or accounts payable within a corporate setting.
• Proven leadership skills focused on coaching, developing, and supporting team members.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with emphasis on accuracy and ongoing process enhancements.
• Proficient in SAP or a comparable ERP system, with confidence handling complex workflows and data.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, adopting a customer-oriented mindset.
• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, capable of balancing multiple priorities in a global environment.

Why Join Zespri?

• Competitive compensation package aligned with market standards.
• FlexWELL program offering flexible work arrangements including working from home and office-based work.
• An additional paid annual leave day known as Zespri Day.
• Comprehensive global life and permanent disability insurance.
• Group medical insurance options available.
• Convenient office location in Mount Maunganui with free onsite parking.
• Daily access to fresh kiwifruit to boost your health.

Equal Opportunity and Application Support

Zespri values diversity and inclusivity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The company is committed to providing reasonable accommodations during the hiring process on request. Applications close on Friday 28 August.