The Visual Pak Companies · 1 month ago
Sourcing Category Manager-Packaging
Waukegan, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
5+ years expThe Visual Pak Companies are aligned with many of the largest consumer product companies in various industries. The Sourcing Category Manager is responsible for executing and managing sourcing strategies for packaging components, optimizing procurement, and ensuring compliance with cost and quality standards.
Manufacturing
Responsibilities
Develop and manage sourcing strategies for packaging materials and components, including supplier relationships and market analysis, to meet business objectives
Lead major supplier negotiations, manage contract development, and ensure compliance with cost, quality, and legal requirements in the packaging category
Manage ongoing supplier performance, including quality, delivery, and cost, while addressing any issues that arise with packaging suppliers
Identify and implement cost-reduction and cost-avoidance initiatives across the packaging category to improve profitability
Conduct supplier assessments, implement supplier scorecards, and manage supplier qualification and onboarding for packaging suppliers
Lead the RFQ/RFP process for packaging suppliers to reduce the cost of goods sold (COGS) and optimize supplier performance
Implement dual sourcing strategies, manage inventory, and monitor supply chain risks and disruptions related to packaging components
Work with internal teams to develop category strategies for packaging, resolve raw material issues, and improve supply chain efficiency for packaging components
Provide regular and accurate reporting on market conditions, cost changes, and packaging supply chain performance to internal stakeholders
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's Degree with emphasis in business, procurement, finance, packaging, or related field
Minimum of 5 years of Sourcing/Purchasing experience in a Manufacturing, Consumer Product Goods (CPG), or Distribution environment, with a focus on packaging components (e.g., retail packaging, flexo packaging, corrugated cartons, etc.)
Proven track record in managing supplier relationships, including vendor inventory management, Just-In-Time (JIT), Lean manufacturing, and supply chain processes related to packaging
5+ years of experience negotiating and managing supplier contracts, including RFQ/RFP processes, supplier performance, and cost optimization for packaging categories
Knowledge of packaging testing (ISTA), supplier qualification, auditing, and packaging specifications for CPG companies, retailers, and dot-com customers
Familiarity with packaging materials, design, and production processes (e.g., cardboard, plastic, flexo printing, etc.)
Demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously and effectively manage time and resources under pressure
Proven ability to execute cost reduction strategies and identify cost-avoidance opportunities within the packaging supply chain
Strong negotiation skills and ability to resolve conflicts effectively with packaging suppliers
Experience with e-procurement software, reverse and forward auctions, SAP and/or Ariba procurement software, ERP system support – vendor set up
Advanced PC skills: Microsoft Office – Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project, also Adobe Illustrator, digital photography, and file management
Excellent writing and verbal skills. Proficient with chemical technical terminology
Great inter-personal communication skills, team player, cross functional leader
Strong reporting skills, timely, and thorough. Has financial acumen to support meaningful reporting
Needs to have excellence in the quality of work with accuracy in all aspects of communication
Ability to lift at least 20 lbs regularly
Must be able to sit for long periods of time while typing
Must be able to hear, understand, and communicate work direction in a loud, distracting environment
Must be able to work for extended periods in front of multiple computer screens
Able to commute to office and plant locations
Able to use a cellular device
Preferred
Training in Procurement, Sourcing, E-Procurement, and online catalog management a plus
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life & AD&D Insurance
401(k)
401(k) match
Pet Insurance
Paid time-off
Paid holidays
Tuition reimbursement
Flexible Spending Account
Dependent Care Subsidy
Childcare Resources
Commuter Benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Disability Insurance
Employee Discounts
Company
The Visual Pak Companies
The Visual Pak Companies is a packaging and containers company providing contract manufacturing and packaging solutions.
501-1000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Michael Golebiowski
Chief Information Officer
Company data provided by crunchbase