Category Manager (packaging/indirect) - Food

CSG Talent are working with a leading confectionery business who are looking to recruit 2 category manager positions (packaging & indirect material focuses).

In this role, you'll partner closely with Regional Procurement Directors and Global Category Managers to support sourcing strategies that align with global strategy. You'll play a key role in evaluating suppliers, leading performance reviews, analyzing market dynamics, and helping shape long-term category plans. Your insight into cost structures and regional supply trends will be essential in identifying opportunities for value creation.

Beyond the numbers, you'll also support digital initiatives in procurement, help build a culture of sustainability, and collaborate with local teams to streamline operations and boost efficiency. You'll act as a regional link-bringing together local buyers and global strategies to ensure procurement delivers consistent results.

Please note, individuals should be able to be based in either Kentucky or Illinois for these roles, with relocation assistance offered if required.

What you'll do:

• Contribute to sourcing strategies by helping run RFIs/RFPs, assess suppliers, and manage negotiations and contracts

• Stay informed about regional supplier markets and trends, sharing insights with category leaders

• Support development of category strategies with cost analysis and market benchmarking

• Track and drive supplier performance through KPIs and regular review meetings

• Manage contract changes and updates related to materials, pricing, or design

• Promote and embed sustainability initiatives in procurement practices

• Deliver training and support for local teams around responsible sourcing

• Play a role in procurement process improvements and digital tool rollouts

• Ensure accurate budgeting and work alongside financial and reporting teams

• Identify ways to enhance procurement efficiency in collaboration with local buyers

A bit about you:

• You have a Bachelor's degree, ideally with a focus in procurement or supply chain

• You know your way around packaging or indirect categories, especially in international environments

• Fluent in English; bonus if you speak Spanish or Portuguese

• Comfortable with tools like Excel and enjoy working with data

• A confident negotiator, effective communicator, and strategic thinker

• Passionate about sustainability and how it connects to supply chains

• Someone who can navigate complexity, work independently, and adapt quickly

• Open to traveling up to 20% of the time

If you're interested in these excellent opportunities, please reach out for more information!

Keywords: procurement, category, sourcing, ariba, procuring, purchasing, packaging, indirect, direct.