Manager, Sourcing - Packaging

Mars; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 71,000 - 98,000; Full time

Job summary

Mars is seeking a Strategic Sourcing Manager in Chicago to partner with senior buyers and drive sub-category strategies globally. You will lead sourcing events, evaluate supplier proposals, and co-pilot optimization of resources across regions.

The role requires 6–8 years in procurement, strong negotiation and contract management expertise, and the ability to navigate ambiguity with cross-functional stakeholders worldwide. A competitive package is offered.

Qualifications

• 6–8 years of procurement experience, FMCG preferred.
• Strong negotiation, contract management & RFP leadership skills.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and ability to navigate ambiguity.

Responsibilities

• Execute Sourcing Strategy: lead strategic sourcing events and evaluate supplier proposals to activate category strategies.
• Negotiate and contract for value: conduct analyses to inform negotiations and manage end-to-end contracting.
• Operational and supplier management: maintain contracts (e.g., in SAP) and drive supplier relationships.

Skills

Procurement experience

FMCG experience

Negotiations

Contract management

RFP leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Financial acumen

Supplier relationships

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

SAP

Job description

Job Description:

As a Strategic Sourcing Manager at Mars you will partner closely with the Senior Sourcing Manager and Buyers to drive development & implementation of sub-category buying strategies and co-pilot optimization of resources. You’ll manage both regional and global initiatives by leveraging supplier relationships, while also driving standardization and automation. Ownership of sub-category spend on a global basis will be key, as will heavy cross-functional collaboration and close partnership with key stakeholders.

What are we looking for?

• -6-8 years of solid procurement experience (FMCG preferred)
• Good understanding of the regional FMCG Packaging market and industry.
• Expertise in negotiations, contract management, and leading large RFPs.
• Excellent communication skills, collaborative, and ability to navigate through ambiguity.
• Ability to analyze complex market data / developments and drive insights and actions.
• Strong financial acumen.
• A passion for developing strong relationships with suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders both domestically and internationally.
• Bachelor's degree at a minimum.

What will be your key responsibilities?

Execute Sourcing Strategy: Leveraging market and spend intelligence, lead strategic sourcing events, evaluate supplier proposals, and prepare business award recommendations to activate category strategies.

Negotiate & Contract for Value: In partnership with the cost modeling team, conduct comprehensive analysis to inform negotiation strategies, lead supplier negotiations, and manage end-to-end legal contracting to maximize value.

Operational & Supplier Management: Maintain operational contracts (e.g., in SAP) for accurate pricing and engage in supplier relationship management as defined by segmentation.

What can you expect from Mars?

Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.

Join a purpose-driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.

A strong focus on learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.

An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

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The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is between the range listed below, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position will include variable pay, medical and dental benefits, participation in 401k plan, and paid time off benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an applicant receives an offer of employment.

The pay range shown is applicable to all US locations listed within the job posting:USD 71,200.00 - USD 97,900.00