Cluster Category Procurement Manager – 2 nd Packaging

Job Description:

Position: Cluster Category Procurement Manager – 2 nd Packaging

Department: Global Procurement

Supervisor: Procurement Cluster Director - Asia Africa

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Main Purpose

The Procurement Category Manager 2 nd Packaging for the Asia Africa Cluster is responsible for developing and executing

the sourcing strategy and implementing procurement initiatives for the 2 nd Packaging category (cardboard, foils, pallets).

Reporting directly to the Cluster Procurement Director, this role is pivotal in driving cost efficiency, market analysis,

supplier innovation, and sustainable procurement practices.

This is a highly strategic role that combines category expertise with operational execution to deliver measurable value

across the supply chain. The Category Manager will collaborate with regional stakeholders, suppliers, and cross-

functional teams to achieve optimal outcomes aligned with the global procurement organization’s goals.

Primary regions in scope will be APAC, CIS, India and AMET

 

Main Tasks

Category Analysis & Sourcing Strategy Development

 Identify, develop and implement a robust category sourcing strategy in the Asia Africa region for corrugated

packaging (Big Box, trays), foils (inliner, inliner bags, stretch) and pallets aligned with global procurement

objectives, covering country / regional needs.

 Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify trends, opportunities and risks within the 2 nd Packaging supply

chain.

 Collaborate with country, regional & global procurement teams to align category initiatives and leverage

synergies across regions.

Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Management

 Lead strategic sourcing initiatives to identify, evaluate, and select suppliers for the above 2 nd packaging

categories.

 Negotiate and manage supplier contracts, ensuring favourable terms, quality standards, and compliance with

corporate policies.

 Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to drive innovation, sustainability, and performance

improvements.

 Conduct regular supplier performance reviews, addressing issues and identifying opportunities for continuous

improvement.

Cost Optimization and Value-in Creation

 Drive cost reduction initiatives without compromising on quality or performance, ensuring competitive advantage

for the organization.

 Monitor and manage category spend, providing detailed analysis and reporting to the Cluster Procurement

Director.

 Identify and implement value-adding opportunities, such as alternative materials or innovative technologies, in

collaboration with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Operational Excellence and Risk Management

 

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 Ensure uninterrupted supply of 2 nd Packaging materials to meet production and business demands across the

Americas cluster.

 Proactively identify and mitigate risks related to supply continuity, regulatory compliance, and market volatility.

 Collaborate with logistics and supply chain teams to optimize inventory management and delivery schedules.

Stakeholders Collaboration

 Partner with the global procurement community, sales, operations, finance, and logistic teams to ensure

alignment of procurement strategies with product requirements.

 Act as a category expert and trusted advisor to internal stakeholders, providing insights and recommendations

on category-related matters.

 Support sustainability goals by embedding ESG principles into category procurement practices.

 

Job Holder Profile / Requirements

Education and Experience

 Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business, engineering, or a related field; advanced degree

(MBA or equivalent) preferred.

 10+ years of procurement or category management experience, ideally within packaging materials, chemicals,

or manufacturing industries.

 Proven track record of successfully managing procurement categories in a multinational environment.

Skills and Competencies

 Category Expertise: In-depth knowledge of the most used packaging materials within manufacturing industry,

key suppliers, feedstocks (paper, plastic, steel), market indexes.

 Analytical Ability: Strong data analysis skills to assess market trends, supplier performance, and cost drivers;

used to monitor and analyze global market indexes (i.e. EUWID).

 Hand-on approach: able to navigate in de-structured environment with weak data management system in place.

 Negotiation Skills: Exceptional negotiation and contract management skills, with a focus on value creation and

risk mitigation.

 Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop long-term category strategies aligned with business objectives.

 Communication: Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills, capable of engaging with stakeholders at all

levels.

 Tech Savvy: Proficiency in procurement tools and systems (e.g., Microsoft D365, Coupa) and data visualization

software.

 

It is required to act in a safe and environmentally responsible manner at all times by adhering to pallpolicies and

procedures as well as Safety Standards (OSHA).

This job description was fully explained to me and I have received a copy. The job description describes the core function

areas of my work. It is not all inclusive and I may be required to perform other duties as needed.