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Leaf Procurement Specialist
Position:
The Leaf Procurement Specialist plays a key role in sourcing and purchasing high-quality tobacco leaf, ensuring a reliable supply for production. The role involves working closely with farmers and internal teams, managing inventory, and overseeing processes from contract negotiations to quality inspections. Regular travel to Flue Cured and Burley receiving stations is required to select and purchase the best tobacco for JTI.
Responsibilities
Work with Tobacco Growers
Evaluate and grade growers based on previous crop year results; allocate volumes in line with JTI’s needs
Contact growers to align on upcoming crop plans; prepare and ensure timely signing of contracts (Flue Cured first, then Burley)
Build strong partnerships with farmers and run the Farmer Excellence Program
Support growers with GAP certification and collect required data for the Supply Chain Due Diligence (SCDD) program
Visit farms to monitor crop development and gather market intelligence
Coordinate with the agronomy team to provide technical support when needed
Tobacco Leaf Procurement
Prepare Buying Stations for the season: arrange repairs, certify weights, and ensure buying lines function properly
Share the buying schedule with growers and ensure timely scheduling
Understand and follow required tobacco styles and stalk positions during procurement
Grade tobacco at the Buying Station and work to secure any additional required volume
Troubleshoot and resolve issues that arise during the buying process
Assist in recruiting and training seasonal Buying Station staff
Tobacco Leaf Quality Management
Provide regular updates and guidance to the Leaf Director to help meet JTI KPIs
Deliver accurate forecasts on volume variances, considering market trends
Collaborate with growers to address and resolve quality issues
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with local and global Leaf teams to meet procurement and quality objectives
Coordinate with LPI, Leaf Processing, and Blending teams to ensure consistent crop grading
Manage green tobacco logistics in collaboration with the Leaf Operations Services team
Data Management & Reporting
Maintain accurate records of procurement activities, contracts, and inventory
Use internal systems to track and manage inventory levels
Ensure timely and accurate reporting for internal and external stakeholders
Requirements:
High School Diploma required; additional education preferredMinimum of 5 years of experience in the tobacco industry, specifically in tobacco procurementStrong negotiation and buying/selling expertiseExcellent communication and interpersonal skills
In-depth knowledge of tobacco leaf and product quality
Effective planning and forecasting abilities
Solid business acumen and analytical insights
Understanding of interpersonal dynamics and relationship management
Ability to differentiate colors accurately
Well-developed sense of smell for assessing tobacco quality
Good MS Office knowledgeFluent EnglishWhat to expect:
Expect wellbeing initiatives, flexible work arrangements, growth opportunities, and excellent benefits, including a unique family leave policy. For more details on local policies, speak with the Talent Advisor.
Are you ready to join us? Build your success story at JTI. Apply now!
Next Steps:
After applying, if selected, please anticipate the following within 1-3 weeks of the job posting closure: Phone screening with Talent Advisor > Assessment tests > Interviews > Offer. Each step is eliminatory and may vary by role type.
At JTI, we strive to create a diverse and inclusive work environment. As an equal-opportunity employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you need any specific support, alternative formats, or have other access requirements, please let us know.