Cost Modeling Manager - Strategic Sourcing & Analytics

Mars; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 79,000 - 109,000; Full time

Job summary

Mars is seeking a Manager of Cost Modelling to build and scale commercial capabilities in cost engineering, category intelligence, and sourcing strategy across Prime spend. The role partners with Sourcing Managers to develop robust cost models and analytical tools that inform negotiations and product roadmaps.

With a focus on should‑cost work for materials and packaging, the role drives value through advanced analytics, continuous improvement, and digitization of modelling capabilities, enabling

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 3+ years of experience in Procurement, Finance, Cost Engineering, or Supply Chain.
• Experience in packaging, raw materials, or external manufacturing within CPG, FMCG, or management consulting.
• Strong functional expertise in procurement.
• Proven track record in project execution and process management in matrixed environments.
• Highly analytical capability with exceptional problem‑solving, critical‑thinking, and data‑synthesis skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop should‑cost models for raw materials, packaging, and finished goods isolating key cost drivers to feed the savings pipeline and anchor supplier negotiations.
• Digitize cost‑modelling capabilities and insights through the development and deployment of digital tools and templates.
• Evaluate internal specifications against industry standards to identify value‑engineering and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Calculate yields, scrap, labor, overhead, and supplier margins to determine clean cost baselines and fair market pricing.
• Translate cost insights into actionable recommendations to influence product roadmaps, cross‑functional teams, and sourcing strategies.
• Deliver analytical support for long‑range forecasting, capacity planning, cash delivery initiatives, and procurement negotiations.
• Drive continuous improvement across materials, processes, and systems to ensure cost‑optimal and sustainable manufacturing.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Data synthesis

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Job description

Mars is seeking a Manager of Cost Modelling to build and scale commercial capabilities in cost engineering, category intelligence, and sourcing strategy across Prime spend. The role partners with Sourcing Managers to develop robust cost models and analytical tools that inform negotiations and product roadmaps.

With a focus on should‑cost work for materials and packaging, the role drives value through advanced analytics, continuous improvement, and digitization of modelling capabilities, enabling