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Category Manager

Posted 6 days 10 hours ago by Ser-

Permanent

Full Time

Manufacturing Operations Jobs

Bedfordshire, Kempston, United Kingdom, MK427

Job Description

Category Manager - Packaging Industry

We are a supplier of packaging services with 20+ years of experience in the retail, FMCG, ecommerce, 3PL, pharma and automotive sectors. We are looking for an experienced Category Manager or senior Supply/Procurement professional who can take full ownership of strategic categories within our growing packaging group, specifically Labels, Bags and Envelopes with exposure to the Far East.

Salary & Location

£50,000 - £60,000

Kempston

Benefits

23 days holiday + bank
Health Cash Plan
Life Insurance 2x salary
Catered Lunches
Salary Exchange Pension

The Role

Own and manage assigned packaging categories, developing and executing long-term category strategies
Lead supplier selection, performance management, and commercial negotiations at a senior level
Manage and develop overseas supplier relationships
Ensure all products and materials meet quality and regulatory standards
Work closely with sales, operations, and technical teams to align category strategy with customer demand
Identify and mitigate supply and commercial risk while controlling cost and availability
Drive continuous improvement, innovation and cost saving initiatives within categories
Play a key role in shaping procurement and category management processes across the group
Support business growth through effective range management and supplier collaboration

About You

Proven experience in category management, procurement or supply chain within packaging or similar industry
Strong strategic mindset with the ability to remain commercially hands on
Experience managing international suppliers, particularly in the Far East
Highly commercial with strong negotiation and supplier relationship skills
Solid understanding of quality and supplier compliance requirements
Proactive, confident and able to influence stakeholders across the business
Experience working with ERP / MRP systems
Candidates stepping up into a Category Manager role with strong Far East exposure will also be considered