Global Cost Optimization Manager

As the Global Cost Optimization Manager at Sazerac, your primary responsibility will be to support and execute cost optimization projects that integrate our global products into a cohesive program. You will analyze performance metrics, manage project risks, and develop comprehensive plans to ensure success. A key aspect of your role includes identifying opportunities for cost savings across different initiatives, all while ensuring compliance with industry regulations and guidelines.

To qualify for the Global Cost Optimization Manager role at Sazerac, candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering, finance, accounting, tax, or a related field. Additionally, five years of professional experience in operations or related fields is required. Proficiency in Microsoft tools such as Excel and Power BI, along with strong analytical and communication skills, is essential for success in this role.

The Global Cost Optimization Manager contributes significantly to Sazerac’s success by developing and implementing strategies that reduce costs while maintaining product quality and compliance. This role is crucial in identifying and mitigating risks associated with cost optimization projects, ultimately leading to enhanced operational efficiency and sustainable growth for the company.

Essential skills for the Global Cost Optimization Manager at Sazerac include strong time management and organizational abilities, analytical thinking, and exceptional problem-solving skills. Additionally, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are vital, enabling you to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders across the organization while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

During the hiring process for the Global Cost Optimization Manager at Sazerac, candidates can expect a comprehensive evaluation of their qualifications and skills relevant to the role. This may include interviews with team members and management, assessments of analytical abilities, and discussions around previous experiences in cost optimization and project management. Sazerac values diverse backgrounds and seeks candidates who align with its innovative and entrepreneurial culture.

In addressing this question, highlight specific instances where you've identified effective cost-saving measures. Discuss the strategies you employed, the results of those initiatives, and how they contributed to operational efficiency in previous roles.

Respond by outlining a systematic approach you take in prioritizing projects, such as evaluating potential impact, assessing resource availability, and aligning projects with organizational goals. Provide examples to demonstrate your decision-making process.

Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with software tools like Excel, Power BI, or any other analytical platforms you've previously utilized. Mention specific features or functions you have used to analyze cost data and derive actionable insights.

Share an example of a challenging situation, detailing the resistance faced and how you navigated discussions to foster collaboration. Highlight the importance of communication and how you worked to gain buy-in from stakeholders.

To answer this, you can mention the ways you keep abreast of regulations, including participating in professional networks, attending industry conferences, and subscribing to relevant publications. Emphasize your commitment to compliance and continuous learning.

Discuss your experience working with cross-functional teams and how such collaboration leads to successful project outcomes. Provide examples of past collaborations that resulted in cost reductions or operational improvements.

Articulate the key performance indicators (KPIs) you frequently track, such as cost savings achieved, project completion timelines, or improvements in operational efficiency. Illustrate how these metrics aid in assessing performance.

Offer a detailed account of a specific project, elucidate your role in it, the objectives set, the approach taken, and the measurable outcomes achieved. Speak to the challenges faced and how you overcame them.

Outline your understanding of compliance requirements in cost optimization and how you ensure adherence, including setting up governance frameworks, conducting regular audits, and collaborating with compliance teams.

Describe the analytical techniques you employ, such as various modeling methods used to simulate cost scenarios, and the data analysis approaches implemented to uncover potential savings. Emphasize your critical thinking and data-driven decision-making skills.