Procurement Manager - Packaging

Company: Sterling Engineering, Inc.
Location: Chicago
Posted on: February 18, 2025

Job Description:

Employment Type: PermanentJob Category: AccountingJob Number: 43018485Compensation: $135000-145000 / yearJob DescriptionTitle: Packaging Procurement ManagerLocation: Chicago, ILPay Rate: $130K - $145KWe are seeking an experienced, detail-oriented, and versatile Packaging Procurement Manager to join our team and oversee the strategic planning and purchasing of corrugated cases, folding cartons, sticks, and miscellaneous packaging components. This individual will play a pivotal role in ensuring cost-effective, high-quality packaging solutions that align with our brand and operational requirements. The ideal candidate will have category management experience, including supplier management and development, evaluating product costs, new item development, market analysis, and ensuring the timely availability of packaging materials. Prior experience assisting with graphics development is a plus. This role requires collaboration with internal teams, including Packaging Engineering, Manufacturing, Demand Planning, and Marketing, as well as with suppliers.Key Responsibilities:

• Manage assigned categories (Corrugated Cases, Sticks, Folding Cartons, and Miscellaneous Packaging Items) to ensure timely availability of quality goods at economical prices. Conduct a biennial bid for all items in major categories.
• Develop short-term (1-2 years) and mid-term (2-5 years) supply strategies, identifying weaknesses in the supply chain and finding contingency solutions.
• Continually evaluate suppliers and products to ensure prompt service and full value for purchase dollars.
• Organize and plan effectively to manage a large number of items under responsibility.
• Stay informed of new and improved products and industry trends.
• Anticipate market needs and conditions to facilitate timely and economical purchases (e.g., backup supply options and lead-time communication).
• Keep management informed of supplier changes, market conditions, supply issues, or proposed packaging changes.
• Lead new supplier development and item trials.Budgeting and Cost Management
  • Develop accurate standard costs and conduct cost studies as necessary to support business planning.
  • Maintain and audit price files for all categories.
  • Conduct bids for new items.
  • Provide inputs for long-term budgeting and planning related to assigned categories.
  • Manage item-level planning and budgeting (art, plates, cutting dies).
  • Approve invoices for plates, artwork, samples, and cutting dies.Item and Graphics Management
    • Manage the workflow for art separations and final artwork approvals for assigned categories.
    • Work cross-functionally to develop new packaging items.
    • Initiate the item setup process for new packaging items.Other Responsibilities
      • Ensure supplier follow-up on non-conformances.
      • Process sample requests for costing.
      • Update supplier data as required.
      • Maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal departments to ensure high cooperation and service levels.
      • Represent the company and department professionally in all internal and external interactions.Qualifications:
        • Positive attitude with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
        • Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
        • 5+ years of experience in Procurement, preferably in packaging for manufacturing or consumer goods industries.
        • Ability to adapt to changing business conditions.
        • Proven category management experience, with specific expertise in corrugated cases and/or folding cartons highly desirable.
        • Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
        • Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement tools (e.g., Oracle, SAP).
        • Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
        • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively across all organizational levels.
        • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
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Keywords: Sterling Engineering, Inc., Chicago , Procurement Manager - Packaging, Professions , Chicago, Illinois