Packaging Category Lead Europe

In Short

We are seeking an experienced and self-driven Category Manager Packaging with a strong focus on strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and spend management within a global context. A background in the packaging industry is a strong plus. Understanding the paint industry is also beneficial. This senior role requires the ability to work independently, with up to 10% travel in the EMEA region.

Key Responsibilities

• Global Sourcing Strategy: Develop and implement global and regional category sourcing strategies, aligning with company objectives.
• Commercial Management: Lead all commercial activities, including contract negotiations, supplier selection, relationship management, and risk mitigation.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Manage key supplier relationships, driving improvements in quality, delivery, cost, innovation, and sustainability.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Serve as a key interface between the category and regional Packaging Technologist teams to optimize supplier innovation and support new product introductions.
• Project Management: Lead the development and execution of cost-reduction projects, ensuring alignment with category financial objectives.
• Market Expertise: Monitor and forecast packaging market trends, translating new developments into business opportunities.
• Supply Risk Management: Oversee supply risk management and resolve escalated supply issues.
• Leadership & Delegation: Delegate management of local and tail spend to regional procurement specialists as appropriate.
• Strategic Representation: Represent the category in cross-functional forums, such as Integrated Business Planning (IBP), new product introductions, and regional procurement programs.
   

Autonomy & Authority

• Decision-Making: Authorized to negotiate and contract with all suppliers within the category on behalf of the company.
• Strategic Planning: Independently develop and execute strategic plans, while collaborating closely with key stakeholders.

Additional Information

• Spend Management: Oversee a packaging spend category with a budget of €110M.
• Supplier Base: Manage a highly diverse supplier base with a focus on sustainability and price management.
   

Requirements

• Experience: 10+ years in procurement, sourcing, or purchasing, ideally in the chemical, coating, the field of supply chain, or automotive industries. A minimum of 3-5 years in a senior management role, with experience in category management and strategy deployment.
• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Science, Engineering, or Business Management. An MBA or CPM certification is preferred.
   

Skills:

• Strong technical understanding of packaging materials and processes.
• Proven ability to negotiate and manage supplier contracts at a senior level.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to develop and implement strategic plans.