We are seeking a highly motivated Packaging Category Manager to oversee strategic sourcing, category management, and supplier engagement for packaging materials across approximately 130 manufacturing sites. This role will manage a complex spend portfolio of approximately $80 million, with a strong emphasis on corrugated and paper-based products. The successful candidate will lead initiatives to drive cost reduction, streamline supply chains, and enforce compliance while delivering high-quality support to internal stakeholders across diverse Business Units.

Position Responsibilities

Sourcing, Negotiations, and Supplier Management

Lead sourcing efforts, supplier and contract negotiations to optimize total cost of ownership across all packaging categories.
Develop and implement sourcing strategies to meet business needs while ensuring supplier performance and cost efficiency.
Collaborate with Operations, R&D, and Product Management on packaging projects and new product development (NPD) or value analysis/value engineering (VAVE) initiatives.
Partner with global sourcing counterparts to align regional strategies with global objectives.

Strategic Category Management

Create and maintain category strategies informed by in-depth market analysis and commodity trends.
Monitor industry dynamics, pricing trends, and raw material influences (e.g., paper, plastics, lumber) to proactively adjust sourcing tactics.
Maintain forecasts and budget alignment with long-range planning and annual business goals.
Publish regular updates on category compliance, supplier performance, and cost-saving initiatives to internal stakeholders.
Drive consistency and compliance in procurement practices across Business Units.

Stakeholder Collaboration & Change Leadership

Serve as the primary point of contact for packaging procurement, ensuring alignment with Business Unit technical and operational needs.
Influence and align cross-functional teams, promoting best practices in procurement and packaging sustainability.
Act as a change agent within the procurement function, constantly challenging the status quo and seeking innovation in packaging sourcing.

Prerequisites

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, or a related field.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in Procurement, with a strong focus on Packaging or Raw Materials.
Demonstrated ability to work in matrix organizations and lead cross-site projects.
Strong analytical, negotiation, and project management skills.
Proven ability to drive compliance and implement strategic sourcing initiatives.

Certifications (Preferred, but not Required)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

What the Role Offers

High-impact opportunity to manage a strategic spend category at a significant scale.
Exposure to both regional and global procurement strategy development.
Collaborative, values-driven work culture centered on Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration.
Opportunity to drive innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence in packaging procurement.

Why Malvern?

While this role spans a North America-wide scope, it connects with a central procurement organization that fosters innovation, teamwork, and professional growth. Employees enjoy a culture that values inclusion, shared knowledge, and contributions to a sustainable future—making it more than just a job, but a meaningful career path.