Regional Category Manager - Packaging (Remote)

One of the world's leading manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum is looking to add a Regional Category Manager - Packaging to their team!

The Regional Category Manager plays a pivotal role in optimizing direct material spend within a region, driving cost savings and enhancing procurement value. They leverage market expertise to support Regional Procurement Directors and Global Category Managers, analyze market trends, execute Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), and ensure sustainability goals are achieved. Additionally, they facilitate stakeholder management, spearhead digital enablement projects, and ensure budget and reporting accuracy.

As the crucial link between the Regional Procurement Director and Local Buyers, they address supplier performance issues for global spend categories requiring regional input. Their role is essential for seamless procurement execution, effective supplier relationships, and alignment with strategic initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Collaboration: Partner with Regional Procurement Directors and Global Category Managers to implement strategic sourcing activities.
• Supplier Engagement: Develop RFI/RFPs, identify and evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and manage contract amendments related to pricing, materials, and design.
• Market Monitoring: Track regional market conditions, supplier trends, and key factors influencing procurement.
• Category Strategy Development: Analyze cost drivers, supplier profiles, and market benchmarks to assist in developing category strategies.
• Supplier Performance Management: Oversee supplier performance, lead review meetings, and utilize KPIs to drive performance.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Implement regional sustainability initiatives, align local stakeholders with sustainability goals, and provide sustainability training for local buyers.
• Digital Enablement: Support the digitalization of procurement processes, drive adoption, and provide feedback for improvements.
• Budget Reporting: Ensure accurate and timely budget reporting, collaborating with the Procurement Controller and GPS teams.
• Operational Efficiency: Work with local buyers to identify and implement efficiency improvements in procurement operations.

Qualifications

• Educational Background: Bachelor's degree required, preferably with a procurement specialization. A recognized procurement qualification is highly advantageous.
• Experience: Minimum 8 years of strategic procurement experience in a global/regional role, with a strong background in packaging spend categories within an international environment.
• Language Skills: Full business proficiency in English; Spanish/Portuguese is a plus.
• Technical Skills: Expertise in project management, proficiency in Excel, data analysis, and reporting.
• Negotiation and Market Intelligence: Strong negotiation skills, market intelligence, and analysis expertise.
• Sustainable Sourcing: Experience in sustainable sourcing and the ability to develop strategic business cases.
• Communication and Presentation: Strong presentation and communication skills for senior stakeholders.
• Core Competencies:
• Situational Adaptability: Adjusts approach based on changing circumstances.
• Complexity Management: Analyzes complex data to solve problems effectively.
• Courage: Addresses challenges and communicates openly.
• Team Building: Fosters collaboration and diverse perspectives.
• Innovation: Develops new strategies for business success.
• Strategic Mindset: Anticipates future trends and translates them into actions.
• Results Orientation: Delivers consistent outcomes in demanding situations.
• Planning and Alignment: Prioritizes work to meet organizational objectives.
• Influencing and Communication: Strong influencing and communication skills.
• Independence: Ability to work independently in an ambiguous environment.
• Travel: Willingness to travel up to 20% as needed.