Part of PMI Ops Finance, the Leaf Trading team consists of two groups Leaf Operations and Leaf Financial Controlling. The Leaf Operations team coordinates logistics aspects related to procurement of leaf to ensure that purchased tobacco is shipped, stored, paid and delivered to PMI Factories under the best conditions in terms of quality, cost and timing.  

The Leaf Financial Controlling Team monitors key financial aspects of PMI global leaf inventory as well as financial reporting of overall leaf related expenses.  

Both teams take full ownership of tobacco inbound, long term storage and outbound arrangements to PMI Manufacturers including physical movements and financial planning and controlling. 

The Leaf Trading team consists of experienced committed professionals with solid operational and financial knowledge. Across many years, the Leaf Trading team has established relationships with internal and external business partners, provided best in class quality services and is a trusted single point of contact for any leaf related topics. 

Going beyond business as usual 

The current unprecedented global logistics crisis and the Ukraine/Russia conflict have deeply impacted all companies, including PMI.  

Throughout these major challenges, Leaf Operations and Leaf Controlling teams were strongly engaged with PMI and non-PMI Business Partners to ensure timely leaf deliveries and avoid production disruptions.  

Each team member has been involved in supporting the supply of leaf from around the globe where tobacco is grown to PMI factories to ensure continuous production. By using alternative logistics solutions, closely collaborating with multiple stakeholders (i.e. Global Procurement, Carriers/Shipping lines, warehouses, LCT Team, Regional Planning Hubs, Leaf Planning, Leaf Blenders and many others) and reacting immediately in a very dynamic environment (i.e. sanctions against Russia, container shortages, new trading routes, etc.) PMI managed to avoid production disruptions.  

Rapidly changing supply chain environment required from the whole team a lot of flexibility, forward- looking approach and agility in planning and forecasting activities to support business decisions.  

This effort has successfully ensured business continuity for PMI factories and the reduction of losses related to tobacco. 

In the context of described unpredictable changes and the work-from-home situation due to the pandemic, the Leaf Trading team has been exemplary in understanding the complexity of the challenges and business requirements of our customers, while managing the stressful and emotional situation caused by the Ukraine/Russia conflict happening next door.