Dir, Procurement

Description & RequirementsSmurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.The Director of International Logistics Procurement is responsible for the strategy, execution, and governance of the company’s North American international logistics network, including air and ocean transportation sourcing, mill export logistics operations, and trade compliance oversight. This role ensures efficient, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods across international borders while mitigating regulatory, operational, and geopolitical risk.The position provides strategic leadership and subject matter expertise across logistics procurement, logistics execution, and trade compliance, partnering cross functionally with Supply Chain, Operations, Finance, Legal, Sales, and regional teams to support global business objectives and continuity of paper supply to internal plants and external sales.Key Responsibilities Develop and execute sourcing strategies for international transportation and logistics services (ocean, air, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and related services) that prioritize service, measurable value, and optimization to business requirements. Lead sourcing events, face-to-face negotiations, supplier selection, and complex contract negotiations. Build and maintain strategic relationships with key logistics suppliers, including leaders at global ocean carriers and US port authorities, to strengthen partnerships and ensure long-term value creation. Manage pricing structures, surcharges, fuel mechanisms, key performance indicators, and supplier business reviews. Drive cost take-out initiatives, project management, continuous improvement efforts, and build strong cross-functional partnerships to align business objectives. Collaborate with key business partners to develop freight forecasts and budgets; conduct financial analysis of international logistics activity and track procurement-driven savings and cost avoidance results. Monitor global freight markets, capacity trends, and risk factors to inform senior leadership, plan freight budgets, and adapt sourcing strategies to mitigate risks. Provide oversight of mill export logistics operations, ensuring on-time, cost-effective, and efficient movement of goods. Maintain standard operating procedures for international logistics processes; resolve escalations related to service failures, delays, capacity constraints, or disruptions. Oversee the company’s export trade compliance strategy and governance framework, ensuring compliance with U.S. and international trade regulations; partner with Legal, Finance, and other teams to manage compliance risks and regulatory changes. Develop and mentor talent, provide coaching, feedback, and support to enable team members to achieve professional and organizational goals.Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, logistics, or a related field with a minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in international logistics, procurement, and/or logistics operations. Proven experience in supplier relations, supplier development, pricing and contract negotiations, and supplier performance management. Proven ability to solve complex issues at both strategic and operational levels. Demonstrated leadership, communication, decision-making, and stakeholder management skills.Key Competencies Procurement process and supplier management. Logistics network optimization. Cross-functional leadership and stakeholder engagement. Data-driven decision-making. People leadership and team development.Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.