Category Manager Packaging

The Category Manager, Packaging is responsible for:

Developing and executing category strategies for packaging materials and related services that support the organization’s operational and customer needs. This role manages the end-to-end strategic sourcing and supplier management activities across the packaging category while driving cost optimization, supply assurance, quality improvement, sustainability initiatives, and innovation.

The Category Manager partners closely with cross-functional stakeholders across Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, Product Development, Marketing, and Finance to align packaging strategies with business objectives and enhance the overall member and customer experience.

This role also serves as a subject matter expert for packaging procurement, leveraging market intelligence, cost modeling, and supplier collaboration to deliver measurable value.

Primary duties and responsibilities:

Category Strategy & Procurement Leadership

• Develop and execute multi-year category strategies for packaging materials including corrugate, thermal packaging, EPS, protective packaging, custom labeling/branding, and cold-chain packaging solutions.
• Own category roadmaps that balance cost, quality, service, innovation, and sustainability objectives.
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives including RFP/RFQ processes, supplier selection, negotiation, and contract execution.
• Utilize Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) modeling, should-cost analysis, and market benchmarking to drive procurement decisions and supplier negotiations.
• Identify and onboard qualified domestic and international suppliers to strengthen the supply base and improve resilience.

Supplier Relationship & Performance Management

• Lead supplier relationship management including quarterly business reviews (QBRs), supplier scorecards, and performance improvement initiatives.
• Monitor supplier performance related to cost, service, quality, delivery, and risk.
• Develop supplier innovation partnerships to advance packaging design optimization, sustainability improvements, and operational efficiencies.
• Manage supplier risk assessments and develop contingency plans to ensure continuity of supply for critical packaging materials.

Cost Optimization & Market Intelligence

• Monitor relevant market indicators including corrugate, EPS, resin, and freight indices to inform negotiation strategies and pricing models.
• Identify and implement opportunities for cost reduction, packaging optimization, and supply base rationalization.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal stakeholders to reduce packaging waste, improve cube utilization, and drive sustainability initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, R&D/Product Development, Finance, and Marketing to define packaging specifications and forecast requirements.
• Support product launches and operational initiatives requiring new packaging solutions.
• Provide guidance and expertise on packaging design, material selection, and supplier capabilities.

Contract & Procurement Governance

• Lead the contract lifecycle management process for packaging suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, supplier agreements, and organizational governance standards.
• Partner with contract management teams to ensure supplier contracts align with operational and commercial requirements.

Continuous Improvement & Innovation

• Identify opportunities to improve procurement processes, supplier collaboration, and category performance.
• Drive packaging innovation including sustainable materials, cold-chain efficiency, and cost-effective packaging design.
• Lead change management initiatives to improve category performance and stakeholder engagement.

• Supplier executives and operational leaders
• Procurement and supply chain teams
• Operations, Quality, R&D/Product Development, Finance, and Marketing stakeholders
• Organizational leadership and committee staff
  

Core Competencies

• Strategic category management and sourcing expertise
• Advanced negotiation and supplier relationship management
• Strong analytical and financial acumen
• Ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities

Technical Skills

• Strategic sourcing methodologies including TCO modeling and should-cost analysis
• Supplier performance management and risk assessment
• Market intelligence and commodity tracking
• Experience with ERP and e-sourcing platforms
• Ability to build dashboards and category KPI reporting

Education/Experience/Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, Operations, or related field required
• 5+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or category management
• Direct experience sourcing packaging materials and packaging suppliers strongly preferred
• CPSM or equivalent certification preferred

• 10-20% travel required including, but not limited to supplier audits and tradeshows
• This position is based out of the Northfield, IL office. Candidates must reside within 75 miles of the Northfield headquarters and meet in-office requirements.

Salary Range: $87,000 - $111,000