Category Manager - Packaging

Job Title: Procurement Manager - Packaging
Location: Brussels, Belgium
Company: Fast-Growing, Transforming Industry Leader
Job Type: Full-Time

About Us:

My client is an innovative and fast-growing company undergoing a transformation in the way we operate and deliver value to our customers. As we scale, we're rethinking our approach to procurement, and we're looking for a talented Procurement Manager - Packaging to lead and optimize our packaging procurement function. This is a unique opportunity for someone who thrives in a transformational environment and is excited to build and shape the future of packaging procurement in a high-growth company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Packaging Procurement Strategy:

  • Develop and execute the packaging procurement strategy aligned with the company's overall transformation goals and growth objectives.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including product development, marketing, and operations, to ensure packaging solutions meet quality, cost, sustainability, and branding requirements.
  • Identify opportunities for cost savings, efficiency improvements, and innovation in packaging materials and suppliers.

• Supplier Management & Relationship Building:

  • Source, evaluate, and select packaging suppliers, ensuring the highest standards of quality, cost-effectiveness, and service reliability.
  • Build strong, long-term relationships with key packaging suppliers, negotiating contracts, pricing, and service level agreements (SLAs).
  • Monitor supplier performance and collaborate with suppliers to resolve any issues, ensuring consistent delivery and compliance with specifications.

• Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Lead efforts to incorporate sustainable packaging solutions into the procurement process, in line with the company's sustainability and environmental goals.
  • Work closely with suppliers and industry partners to source environmentally friendly packaging options and reduce waste.
  • Stay informed on industry trends, regulations, and best practices related to sustainable packaging, helping the company stay ahead of environmental challenges.

• Cost Management & Budgeting:

  • Develop and manage the packaging procurement budget, ensuring efficient spend and effective use of resources.
  • Monitor packaging costs, identify cost-saving opportunities, and implement initiatives to optimize packaging spend without compromising quality or brand standards.

• Packaging Innovation & Continuous Improvement:

  • Drive packaging innovation by staying up to date with market trends, new materials, and technologies that can enhance the company's packaging solutions.
  • Evaluate the performance of current packaging solutions and explore new packaging formats, materials, and designs to improve product protection, aesthetics, and consumer appeal.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the procurement team and across the organization.

• Risk Management & Compliance:

  • Identify and manage risks associated with packaging procurement, such as supply chain disruptions, compliance with local and international regulations, and quality control issues.
  • Ensure that all packaging procurement activities comply with relevant regulatory requirements and industry standards, including sustainability certifications and packaging waste regulations.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership:

  • Lead and mentor a growing team of procurement professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams, including marketing, R&D, operations, and logistics, to ensure seamless integration of packaging strategies across the business.
  • Manage packaging-related projects and timelines, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and deadlines are met.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in packaging procurement, supply chain management, or a related field, with a proven track record in sourcing packaging materials, managing suppliers, and driving cost efficiencies.
• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership capabilities, with experience managing teams, driving performance, and leading cross-functional projects.
• Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of packaging materials, design, and production processes, as well as sustainability trends and regulations within the packaging industry.
• Negotiation Skills: Strong contract negotiation skills, with experience managing complex supplier agreements and ensuring compliance with SLAs and KPIs.
• Analytical & Strategic Thinking: Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze data, track packaging performance, and implement strategic sourcing initiatives.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Packaging Technology, or a related field; relevant certifications (CIPS, CPSM, etc.) are a plus.
• Languages: Fluency in English is required; proficiency in French and/or Dutch is highly preferred.
• Tech-Savvy: Proficiency in procurement software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Coupa, etc.) and Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with packaging management systems is a plus.

Why Join Us?

• Exciting Transformation: Be part of a company undergoing a major transformation and play a key role in shaping the future of packaging procurement.
• Career Growth: A unique opportunity to take ownership of a critical area of procurement within a rapidly growing company.
• Innovative Culture: Work in an environment that encourages creative thinking, innovation, and sustainable practices.
• Impactful Role: Your work will directly influence the company's success as we scale and transform our operations.
• Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary and benefits package, including performance-based incentives and opportunities for personal and professional development.

If you're an experienced procurement professional with a passion for packaging, sustainability, and transformation, we want to hear from you! Join us and help build something impactful and lasting in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.