As a household name in food processing and packaging, Tetra Pak stands by having a customer-centric, strong, and competent procurement function. As a result, it’s always working hard to evolve, which includes seeking out new talent wherever possible. This is how Kristina Andric, Supplier Manager IT, became part of the team and kick-started an exciting career.
Andric started working at Tetra Pak in 2018 via a trainee programme called Future Talent. The programme lasted two years and gave trainees the opportunity to understand Tetra Pak from multiple perspectives. Andric was rotated throughout different parts of the organisation and across different geographies, the idea being to give young people a holistic view of the company before taking on a permanent role.
“Embracing change marked my career since the beginning,” she reflects. “My curious nature thrives on the opportunity to engage in diverse experiences and continuous learning. Challenges motivate me and develop my potential, so every change has been to my benefit. I’ve enjoyed it all.”
Viewing procurement with fresh eyes
As a young person in procurement, Andric has a unique perspective on the landscape. Not only is she aware of the way the profession has looked and operated historically, but she also recognises its evolution and the challenges it faces moving forward.
“Traditionally, the procurement profession has been perceived as a transactional profession with limited value,” Andric explains. “However, I believe it’s now evolved into a strategic function that demands advanced competencies. It’s no longer just about negotiating prices – it’s about integrating AI, driving sustainability, optimising delivery performance, and more.
“From my perspective, investing in personal and professional development is essential for procurement professionals. The evolving landscape means that what’s relevant today may become obsolete tomorrow. Technologies like genAI will shape the future of our practices. Hence, we need to keep track of the changing world, acquire the necessary knowledge, and apply it effectively. That’s a challenge, but it’s motivating and rewarding, too.”
How disruption has shaped procurement
As a young person in an ever-evolving industry, Andric has observed disruptions shaping procurement. For her, wider business challenges have given procurement the opportunity to expand its strategic role, further enhancing its significance and impact.
“In recent years, businesses have faced various major external challenges,” Andric notes. “They have all pointed to the importance of resilience, flexibility, sustainability, and more. However, what I’ve increasingly realised is that strategic procurement offers invaluable insights. Historically, procurement has often been reactively factored into strategic planning, rather than proactively put into the equation. But major global events have emphasised the importance of having a strong procurement organisation.”
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