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Stephen Thornhill
Sr. Category Manager - Facilities and Real Estate at Johnson & Johnson
Professional Background
Stephen Thornhill is a distinguished professional specializing in strategic sourcing, procurement operations, and project management. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Stephen has carved out a notable career, primarily excelling at Johnson & Johnson, where he advanced through multiple leadership roles. His journey began with a focus on procurement services, moving through pivotal positions that encompassed category management, vendor migration, and process improvement. His role as Senior Category Manager for Facilities and Real Estate at Johnson & Johnson highlights both his expertise and the trust placed in him by one of the world’s leading healthcare companies.
Stephen’s work experience spans a multitude of sectors including energy, real estate, and manufacturing, showcasing his adaptability and vast knowledge. His tenure at Capgemini as a Senior Consultant in Procurement Services further solidified his consultancy skills, where he provided insights and strategies that improved procurement performance for various clients. After beginning his career at British Bakeries, he quickly transitioned into roles that demanded a keen insight into project management and vendor relations, thus building a rich portfolio of skills that he would further enhance at prominent organizations like Barclays and United Airlines, focusing on strategic sourcing and supplier performance management.
Education and Achievements
Stephen Thornhill's educational journey is as impressive as his professional trajectory. He studied for his MCIPS at the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, equipping him with a robust certification that underlines his credibility in the procurement field. Furthermore, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) from Sheffield Hallam University, focusing on business and management principles, which play a crucial role in his day-to-day operations in sourcing and procurement.
Additionally, Stephen holds a Higher National Certificate (HNC) from The Manchester Metropolitan University. Along with his rigorous academic training, these qualifications complement his professional experiences, creating a well-rounded expert in the field of procurement strategies and operational excellence.
Notable Skills and Capabilities
Stephen’s professional skill set is extensive, with specializations in strategic sourcing, e-sourcing, and procurement operations. His expertise in supplier relationship management (SRM) and category management reflects his ability to optimize supply chains and spend planning effectively. Stephen has also made significant strides in projects related to e-invoicing and sustainability, underscoring his commitment to progressive practices within procurement. His leadership in procurement operations has empowered diverse teams and streamlined complex functions across the organizations he has served, ensuring significant cost savings and enhanced efficiency.
Stephen is also passionate about diversity and inclusion (D&I) within the workplace, striving to foster an environment that embraces different perspectives. Moreover, his ability to manage substantial categories like MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) showcases his strategic vision in managing procurement processes for critical functions in various sectors. Outside of his corporate responsibilities, Stephen is committed to continuous learning and industry improvement, often engaging in professional development opportunities to stay abreast of current trends and technologies in procurement.
Achievements and Impact
Throughout his remarkable career, Stephen Thornhill has achieved numerous accolades that reflect his dedication and impact in the fields of procurement and supply chain management. Many of his initiatives have led to transformative changes within the organizations he has been part of, particularly during his time at Johnson & Johnson, where he successfully led category strategies for a diverse range of verticals, including global real estate and energy.
Notably, his role as EMEA Procurement Operations Manager involved innovating procurement processes that resulted in increased efficiency and competitiveness across markets. Stephen's leadership in research and development of procurement tools at Mars contributed significantly to operational improvements that have since benefited industry standards. The results of his work not only enhanced supplier relations but also improved the overall procurement processes, setting benchmarks for best practices in the field.
As a strategic sourcing project manager for United Airlines and a supplier performance manager at Barclays, he also played a crucial role in establishing effective supplier relationships that catered to operational excellence while adhering to budget constraints. His capacity to collaborate and communicate across various departments has been instrumental in achieving project goals and fostering a culture of inclusion and teamwork.
Conclusion
In summary, Stephen Thornhill is a highly skilled and accomplished professional in strategic sourcing and procurement operations with substantial achievements in category management and operational improvement. His educational background, professional experience, and vast skill set not only highlight his capability as a leading figure in procurement but also emphasize his commitment to driving innovation and excellence in the field. With a passion for sustainability, diversity, and operational efficiency, Stephen continues to make significant contributions to the procurement industry, inspiring future professionals along the way.
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