About Zalfa El-Harake

My Approach: Positivity in Action

" I’m the kind of person who believes that anything is possible. My energy is contagious, and I love helping people see the potential in their ideas and projects, even when the challenges feel big. I thrive on turning obstacles into opportunities, and I bring a hands-on, can-do attitude that motivates teams, partners, and clients alike.

Whether it’s solving a complex problem, launching a new business, or guiding a company through change, I aim to inspire confidence and optimism. I don’t just help people navigate challenges. I help them believe in themselves and their goals, and together we make them happen."

Zalfa El-Harake: Expert in Management, Sales and Procurement.

With over 15 years of experience in global purchasing across multiple industries and 8 years as an entrepreneur, I am a seasoned professional with a proven track record in sales, procurement, and management. My career spans sectors such as hair care, beauty care, baby care, fabric & home care, IT, and food industries, supporting 25 brands. My strategic and tactical expertise, combined with project management skills, has enabled me to optimize supply chains, set up new plants, and develop innovative solutions tailored to industry needs.

Professional Highlights:

Entrepreneure : Founder & CEO of Z&C Switzerland Sàrl, Swiss TaskForce SA, SANMP (Swiss Association of Non-Woven Mask Producers) and zaWash

- Provided strategic consulting, trading, and brokerage in fats, oils, and derivatives.

- Managed purchasing, sales, customer service, and strategic consulting for SMEs.

- Developed and trained Key Account Managers and engaged in non-woven trading and mask production.

- Co-founded a Type IIR mask production plant in Geneva during a critical consultancy period for the Geneva Government.

- Raised 750K CHF to establish the mask plant in just four months.

- Established the association to support and protect Swiss non-woven mask producers.

- Launched zaWash in Switzerland and France, an on-demand waterless car wash service.

- Successfully raised 950K CHF in capital.

- Developed the brand, concept, franchise, and organizational structure in France and the UK.

Corporate career : Procurement Professional at Procter & Gamble (Jun 2003 - Feb 2018)  

- Identified short-term savings projects and developed global and local strategies for targeted savings and innovations.

- Championed competitive bidding using e-tools and reverse e-auctions.

- Managed acquisitions, bankruptcies, new plant transitions, and plant shutdowns without supply interruptions.

- Led global teams and value stream mapping for a global supplier in Asia.

Skills & Competences:

- Business Administration

- Client and Supplier Relationship Management

- Strategic Account Management

- Negotiation Tactics

- Advanced Presentation Skills

- Project Management

- Supply Chain Optimization

- Team Financial Reporting

- Global and Local Strategy Development

- Competitive Bidding

- Leadership and People Management

Industry Knowledge:

1. Chemicals: 

Specialty chemicals, commodity chemicals, and various industrial chemicals (fatty acids, alcohols, PKO derivatives, citric acids, etc...). Plastics, nonwovens, absorbent jelly material, baby diaper related plastics.

2. Packaging: Expertise in flexible packaging with multiple layers.

3. Services: Proficient in IT resources, licenses, software, telecom, and hardware.

Education & IT Skills:

- MASPALA (Purchasing and Supply Chain), University of Geneva (2008-2010)

- Baccalauréat, Collège du Léman (1995)

- Proficient in SAP, Microsoft Office, and ERPs architecture

Fluent in French, English, Italian, Arabic, and Spanish, I bring a diverse and dynamic approach to business, ensuring effective communication and relationship building across cultures. My dedication and emotional intelligence enable me to thrive under pressure and excel in people management, driving success in every project I undertake.