Strategic Plastics Packaging Category Lead

westrockcoffeeinternaljobs; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

WestRock is seeking an experienced procurement leader to develop and execute category strategies for plastics packaging across global suppliers. The role emphasizes cost management, supplier governance, and cross-functional collaboration with product development and manufacturing teams.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in procurement, strong certifications, and ERP experience to drive value and sustainability across packaging programs.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in Category Management, Procurement, or Supply Chain Management.
• Bachelor's degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Engineering, or Business; advanced degree a plus.
• Preferred certifications: CPSM, CPM, MCIPS, CPIM, PMP, APICS, ISM.
• Experience with plastics packaging including films, lids, cups, bottles, sleeves.
• Experience managing diverse supplier bases, contracts, risk, forecasting, and category strategies.
• Strong computer skills including Word, Excel, Outlook, and NetSuite or similar ERP systems.
• Ability to perform in a fast-paced, high-change manufacturing environment.
• Strong financial acumen with understanding of P&L impact and cost drivers.

Responsibilities

• Develop sourcing Category Management plans for Plastics Packaging supporting food and beverage manufacturing.
• Source and assess plastics packaging partners across domestic and international markets.
• Develop supplier evaluation systems for quality, price, delivery, sustainability, and service.
• Create and deploy structured sourcing processes for Best Value supplier relationships.
• Collaborate with Product Development and Packaging Engineering on innovation.
• Execute contracts, RFIs, RFPs, proposals, and supplier agreements.
• Interface with Global Sourcing Quality Assurance for compliance and sustainability.
• Support commercialization of New Product Development projects with Sales and Operations teams.
• Serve as liaison between Procurement and Manufacturing for communication and supply continuity.

Skills

Category management

Procurement leadership

Strategic sourcing

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree a plus

Tools

NetSuite

Excel

Job description

WestRock is seeking an experienced procurement leader to develop and execute category strategies for plastics packaging across global suppliers. The role emphasizes cost management, supplier governance, and cross-functional collaboration with product development and manufacturing teams.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in procurement, strong certifications, and ERP experience to drive value and sustainability across packaging programs.