Category Manager (Packaging)

• Be part of a strong procurement team
• EMEA level opportunity

About Our Client

Global packaging company with some incredibly well known clients based in South East London

Job Description

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for assigned packaging categories, including supplier selection, onboarding, allocation, and sourcing events
• Own and manage relationships with key suppliers, delivering the supplier engagement framework and driving long term innovation through strategic alignment and regular reviews (e.g., T2T, QBRs).
• Serve as the Commercial Lead for the supply base, overseeing negotiations, contract finalization, and pricing strategies across assigned categories.
• Support local market projects and savings initiatives in collaboration with Product Development (PD) teams and commercial teams, contributing to cost optimization and innovation.
• Act as the escalation point for supplier related issues, including quality, capacity, pricing, and commercialization challenges.
• Lead promotional feasibility and capacity strategy development to support marketing and brand goals
• Support Stage Gate processes from early concept (0 3) through execution (4 6), ensuring supplier readiness and sourcing alignment.
• Review and ensure compliance with spend forecasts, contributing to accurate financial planning and reporting.
• Own the cost savings pipeline, identifying and delivering sourcing efficiencies across the EU region.
• Scout, develop and validate new suppliers that strengthen the supply base.
• Lead quarterly pricing forecasts (QPF) and contribute to global cost circularity initiatives.
• Make strategic recommendations and decisions within the Source to Contract (S2C) framework.

The Successful Applicant

A successful Category Manager (Packaging) should have:

• Experience in supply chain sourcing within the Packaging category
• Proven experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, or procurement preferably within packaging, FMCG, or QSR sectors.
• Strong negotiation skills and commercial acumen.
• Commercial mindset and customer focus.
• Experience managing complex supplier networks across multiple markets.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Familiarity with risk management, packaging related sustainability trends, and compliance frameworks.
• Proficiency in data analysis and forecasting tools.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary
• Generous 10% bonus and additional benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in London within a large organisation in the Transport & Distribution industry.
• Permanent role offering stability and career growth.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated individual to excel as a Category Manager (Packaging) in the Transport & Distribution industry. Apply now to take the next step in your career