Strategic OEM & Lifecycle Sourcing Manager

Smurfit Westrock; Atlanta, Northern (GA, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging, seeks a Category Manager for OEM & Lifecycle Services. You will oversee a $150–$250 million annual spend across North America, shaping procurement strategies and ensuring reliable, cost-efficient supply of controls, automation, and infrastructure services.

You will collaborate with stakeholders, analyze market trends, and drive strategic sourcing initiatives to deliver continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in procurement or supply chain roles.
• Ability to collaborate with internal stakeholders to align procurement strategies with project objectives.
• Negotiation and contract management skills.
• Experience working with consultants to support sourcing activities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to travel as needed.
• Bachelor's degree in related field; Master’s preferred.
• Certifications CPSM or CSCP.
• Paper Mill controls, automation, infrastructure knowledge.
• Customer-focused with strong service orientation.
• Effective oral and written communication.
• Excellent planning and prioritization.
• Influence and persuasion capabilities.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving.

Responsibilities

• Oversee an annual category spend of $150–$250 million across North America.
• Optimize procurement strategies and ensure seamless supply of parts and services.
• Manage supplier relationships and negotiate contracts.
• Lead strategic sourcing, supplier selection, and implementation processes.
• Develop category strategies using market and spend data and supplier insights.
• Track KPIs and drive cost savings and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet stakeholder needs.
• Identify and mitigate supplier risk and ensure business continuity.

Skills

Procurement

Stakeholder Mgmt

Negotiation

Contract Mgmt

Data Analysis

Customer Focus

Communication

Planning & Prioritizing

Influence

Decision Making

Travel Flexibility

Paper Mill Ops

Education

Bachelor's degree in supply chain / business / engineering

Master's degree preferred

CPSM / CSCP certifications

Job description

Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging, seeks a Category Manager for OEM & Lifecycle Services. You will oversee a $150–$250 million annual spend across North America, shaping procurement strategies and ensuring reliable, cost-efficient supply of controls, automation, and infrastructure services.

You will collaborate with stakeholders, analyze market trends, and drive strategic sourcing initiatives to deliver continuous improvement and operational excellence.