Category Manager (Packaging)

Southwark Permanent View Job Description
Play a pivotal role in identifying, developing and managing key supply partners that can deliver against our client needs.
  • 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

Contact
Georgina May
Quote job ref
JN-022026-6949910
Phone number
+44 193 226 4097

Job summary

Job function
Procurement & Supply Chain
Subsector
Direct Procurement
Sector
FMCG (Fast Moving Consumer Goods)
Location
Southwark
Contract type
Permanent
Consultant name
Georgina May
Consultant phone
+44 193 226 4097
Job reference
JN-022026-6949910