Business Developer - Purchasing Development

Company Description
At IKEA, we do things a little different. We think, differently. Act, differently. And work differently as well. We like to break things. Like rules. And then make things. Like music-playing lamps. And beds disguised as sofas. Even plant balls that help us look after our planet. It’s all part of our vision - to create a better everyday life for the many. By 2030, we hope to help millions more look forward to going home.
Want to help make this happen? Join our IKEA Food business! It is filled with curious and passionate people, that get energy from influencing, interacting, and working together to deliver great business results. Does it sound like your kind of people?
If so, come and develop the IKEA business together with us! .
At IKEA, we see things a little differently. We onboard our suppliers as partners with whom we create long-term relationships. We want them to grow with us, become more efficient and achieve affordable sustainability.
A few perks of being one of us:
• We believe in you! You get the privilege and the responsibility to lead a diverse team and world-class suppliers, while finding innovative ways to drive the business for IKEA.
• We trust you! You have the confidence and freedom to lead your team and organize your time. Your well-being is our priority. A variety of rewarding work awaits you, which you will be able to combine alongside your hobbies or family.
• We grow with you! In regular informal talks with your manager, you can explore your development and carrier opportunities, and we will support you on the way. We embrace making mistakes and learning from them. For us, at IKEA, that is the best way forward.
Job Description
As Purchasing Development, we purchase the materials and the production capacity to produce both home furnishing products and food. We have more than 1,200 co-workers global wide and operates in 27 locations, this includes 6 category areas. We are now looking for a new Business Developer for Category Area Food in our Plant-Based Category
As a Business Developer, you will be an informal leader of a 3-member micro-team. With a Production Engineer, who takes care of the production process and quality, and a Supply Planner who handles logistics. Based on the analysis, you will draw up an action plan once a year to reduce production costs and to develop better design for the customers, all within the framework of sustainability and ethical business practices.
You can expect to:
• Develop partnerships with suppliers – The micro team travels regularly, in order to solve production issues and to provide suppliers with feedback and help with the implementation of the action plan.
• Create production calculations – Look for cost saving opportunities for both existing and new products.
• Operation – Communicate with suppliers, the management in team meetings regarding project implementation and data entry.
Stacey, a Business Developer in IKEA says: “I am responsible for sourcing high quality products for IKEA stores and customers. I travel and interact with people globally. Meeting with current and/or potential suppliers to explore different business opportunities also helps to enhance my knowledge of the industry and different ways of working. The benefits within IKEA are quite generous. IKEA values a healthy and balanced work/life environment. At IKEA you are the master of your own destiny. You have the opportunity to grow the business. You will find that a responsible approach and good self-management will allow you a more flexible work schedule that fits well with your personal life. If you are self-motivated, able to think outside of the box and enjoy a challenge, you won’t regret joining IKEA!”
Qualifications
To be successful in this role, below competences are important for you.
You have already gained a significant experience in business development / purchasing / external manufacturing. We are looking for a senior competence.
• You know economics and finance – Understanding of company financials: cash flow, P&L, income statements and cost breakdowns.
• Passion for business and the end-goal – Both will come in handy when negotiating with suppliers, where you are to be strict but fair. A solution-oriented person, concentrating on problem solving the regular business issues.
• The art of dealing with people – empathy and great communication skills to coordinate your micro-team. This comes in handy when collaborating with suppliers and stakeholders in the IKEA supply chain.
• Analytical skills - working with numbers, negotiating prices, or setting priorities for your work, in a usually high paced and demanding environment.
• An interest in production and discovering the latest trends and technologies in the food business.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken. You are comfortable in presenting and engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
Last but not least – if you have a food connection – through work, passion, interest or education – it will be a plus.
Additional information
This position is based in Älmhult, Sweden. Please send in your resume and motivational letter in English the latest at February 5, 2024. We will start interview continuously, so do not wait to apply!
If you have any questions regarding the recruitment process, please contact Olivia Swärd, People and Culture Specialist, olivia.sward@inter.ikea.com. If you have any questions regarding the position, please contact Jean-Philippe Giraud, Business Development Manager, jean-philippe.giraud@inter.ikea.com.
We look forward receiving your application!