Category Manager – Global Packaging Manufacturer

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Category Manager to join an award‑winning global packaging manufacturer with production facilities across Europe and South East Asia. The role will manage a diverse category and product range, working with existing suppliers and sourcing new ones globally to support our customers such as McDonald’s, Amazon, Marks & Spencer and Greggs.

Key responsibilities

• Create and execute category strategy to grow sales and profitability.
• Develop category plans aligned with wider purchasing and commercial strategy.
• Develop an annual calendar of supplier tenders and support best‑cost‑first‑time initiatives.
• Manage the supplier base to ensure appropriate partners deliver organisational objectives.
• Source new suppliers globally while maintaining relationships with existing ones.
• Understand manufacturing processes, raw‑material costs, distribution and end‑use to provide commercial insight.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop innovative ideas and future‑proof the business.
• Oversee product lifecycle activity across the range.
• Provide category and product expertise to internal stakeholders and customers.
• Act as final escalation point for internal stakeholder issues within purchasing.

Required profile

• Experience managing a category within a purchasing function.
• Results‑focused with a proven track record in cost‑reduction activities.
• Strong negotiator with commercial awareness.
• Demonstrated success driving category strategy, improving profitability, reducing spend or increasing margins.
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills.
• Experience in retail, packaging or FMCG is a distinct advantage.

What we offer

• Competitive salary.
• Benefits package.