Global Category Manager - Packaging & Sourcing

AWD online; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

AWD online is seeking a Category Manager to join a global packaging manufacturer with European and Asian production facilities. You will manage a diverse category, work with existing suppliers and source new suppliers worldwide to support the business and its customers.

Reporting to the Head of Purchasing, you will develop category strategy, drive profitability, lead tender activities, and collaborate with internal teams to optimize costs and supplier performance.

Qualifications

• Experience managing a category within a purchasing function.
• Proven track record of cost reduction and profitability improvements.
• Strong negotiation and commercial awareness.
• Able to work autonomously and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Create and execute category strategy to grow sales and profitability.
• Develop category plans aligned with purchasing and commercial strategy.
• Manage annual supplier tenders and cost-saving initiatives.
• Oversee supplier base to meet objectives.
• Source new suppliers globally to support customer needs.
• Understand costs across manufacturing, materials, distribution.
• Collaborate with internal teams to drive innovation.
• Manage lifecycle of products within the category.
• Provide category expertise to internal teams and customers.
• Escalate issues within the purchasing department as needed.

Job description

AWD online is seeking a Category Manager to join a global packaging manufacturer with European and Asian production facilities. You will manage a diverse category, work with existing suppliers and source new suppliers worldwide to support the business and its customers.

Reporting to the Head of Purchasing, you will develop category strategy, drive profitability, lead tender activities, and collaborate with internal teams to optimize costs and supplier performance.