Category Manager Packaging Procurement

Category Strategy & Procurement Leadership

This role involves owning and executing multi-year category strategies for packaging materials, including corrugate, thermal and cold-chain packaging, EPS, protective packaging, and custom labeling/branding. It requires serving as the primary decision-maker for category roadmaps balancing cost, quality, service, innovation, and sustainability. Responsibilities include leading complex sourcing initiatives, applying TCO and should-cost analysis, expanding and strengthening the supplier base, and driving informed sourcing decisions.

Supplier Relationship & Performance Management

The Category Manager is responsible for supplier relationship management, including QBRs, scorecards, and performance improvement plans. They drive accountability for cost, quality, delivery, service levels, and risk mitigation, building strategic supplier partnerships focused on innovation, sustainability, and packaging optimization. Proactive supplier risk assessment and development of contingency plans for critical materials are also key responsibilities.

Cost Optimization & Market Intelligence

Monitor and analyze market drivers such as corrugate, resin, EPS, freight, and related indices. Identify and execute opportunities for cost reduction, packaging optimization, and supply base rationalization. Partner with internal teams and suppliers to reduce waste, improve cube utilization, and support sustainability initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Translate business needs into scalable packaging solutions that support operational efficiency and product launches. Provide subject-matter expertise on packaging design, materials, and supplier capabilities. Collaborate with Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, R&D/Product Development, Finance, and Marketing stakeholders to ensure alignment and success.

Contracting, Procurement, Governance & Continuous Improvement

Own the full contract lifecycle for packaging suppliers, ensuring compliance with procurement policies and governance standards. Identify and lead continuous improvement initiatives across sourcing processes, supplier collaboration, and category performance. Champion innovation in sustainable materials, cold-chain efficiency, and cost-effective packaging design.

Key Relationships

Build strong relationships with supplier executives and operational leaders. Work closely with Procurement and supply chain teams, Operations, Quality, R&D/Product Development, Finance, and Marketing stakeholders. Maintain positive relationships with organizational leadership and committee staff.

Knowledge/Skills Required/Preferred

• 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
• 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

• 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

Additional Criteria

• 10-20% travel required including supplier audits and tradeshows
• 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 - $118,000

Equal Opportunity Employer

The CAP is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity and/or expression, national origin, age, ancestry, disability or genetic information, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, citizenship status, order of protection status, homelessness, or any other characteristic protected by federal law and the applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.