Strategic Sourcing Manager, External Manufacturing (Accelerator)

Mars Incorporated in; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 101,000 - 139,000; Full time

Job summary

Mars Snacking Accelerator in the United States seeks a Strategic Sourcing Manager for External Manufacturing (ExMan). You will shape the co-manufacturing network for Trü Frü and related brands, lead complex contract negotiations, and build supplier relationships to accelerate growth. The role requires 5+ years in strategic procurement, strong category management, and FMCG familiarity. Travel up to 30% and cross-functional collaboration are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in business, supply chain, engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years in strategic procurement or related supply chain disciplines.
• Category management experience required; FMCG/food manufacturing knowledge a plus.
• Travel up to 30% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement external manufacturing sourcing strategy for the Accelerator division, focusing on Trü Frü and BFY brands.
• Drive productivity and establish a resilient supplier base with annual pipeline improvements.
• Lead complex contract manufacturing negotiations and establish robust agreements to manage risk and protect IP.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with external manufacturing partners; lead supplier reviews for continuous improvement.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Negotiation

Relationship management

Analytics

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in business or related field

Job description

Strategic Sourcing Manager, External Manufacturing (Accelerator) (Finance)

Job Description:

About Mars Snacking Accelerator

Accelerator, a global Division of Mars Snacking, is on the front line of unlocking growth across high-potential categories and brands to fuel what's next for Snacking. It's home to both emerging and enduring brands, including KIND, TRÜ FRÜ, NATURE'S BAKERY, RXBAR, EGGO, POP-TARTS, and RICE KRISPIES TREATS . Combining the scale of Mars with the agility of a start-up, our Division has the ambition to accelerate the future of snacking by delivering products consumers love today, discovering category-shaping innovations for tomorrow, and developing entrepreneurial teams whose impact will last for generations.

The Opportunity: Why This Role Matters

This isn't a simple contract management job; you are the strategic architect of our external manufacturing network. As the Sourcing Manager for External Manufacturing (ExMan), you are the commercial linchpin responsible for leveraging external capabilities to fuel our growth. You will take the lead on critical upcoming projects, specifically shaping the future co-manufacturing network for our high-growth Trü Frü brand. Your mission is to identify new capabilities, negotiate complex deals, and build robust supplier relationships to support our next wave of innovation. If you are a market expert who thrives on building strategies and turning them into reality, this is your opportunity to make a massive impact.

What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities)

• Develop & Implement Sourcing Strategy: Partner with cross-functional teams to develop and execute the external manufacturing sourcing strategy for the Accelerator division, with a key focus on supporting Trü Frü and other BFY brands.
• Drive Value & Resilience: Deliver an annual pipeline of >4% in productivity savings and cash initiatives while building a resilient and future-fit supply base.
• Negotiate & Manage Contracts: Lead complex contract manufacturing negotiations and put in place robust agreements that drive performance, protect against risk, and secure intellectual property.
• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM): Cultivate and manage relationships with key external manufacturing partners, acting as the primary escalation point and leading supplier business reviews to drive continuous improvement.
• Identify New Capabilities: Actively scout the market to identify new regional suppliers and innovative capabilities that align with our long-term business strategy and new product development pipeline.
• Manage Risk: Forecast price volatility and manage supply, service, and quality risks in line with business priorities.

What We're Looking For

• A Strategic Sourcing Expert: Deep experience in category management and developing sourcing strategies, with a strong preference for experience in external manufacturing.
• A Master Negotiator: Demonstrated ability to lead complex negotiations and structure deals that create long-term value and mitigate risk.
• A Relationship Builder: A natural talent for building and managing strong relationships with both internal stakeholders and external supplier partners.
• An Analytical Thinker: Strong analytical and project management skills with the ability to translate market data and business drivers into a clear, executable strategy.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in business, supply chain management, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: 5+ years of practical experience in large-scale strategic procurement and/or a directly relevant supply chain discipline. Category management experience is required.
• Industry Knowledge: Working experience in FMCG / Food manufacturing is a strong advantage.
• Travel: Ability to travel up to 30% of the time.

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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 101,120.00 - USD 139,040.00