Category Manager Packaging

The company seeks a Senior Category Manager for Packaging in Zürich to lead strategic sourcing and procurement of packaging materials across European and African sites, ensuring quality, cost efficiency, and reliable delivery.

This position focuses on the strategic sourcing and procurement of packaging materials for Barry Callebaut's operations, primarily in Europe and Africa, as well as globally. The role is responsible for balancing quality, cost, and delivery to secure the best overall value for production-ready materials.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for assigned packaging categories in coordination with the sourcing team and director.
• Contribute to annual savings targets and budget planning while maintaining accurate savings tracking.
• Analyze spend and market trends to identify opportunities for process and sourcing improvements.
• Oversee the procurement process for assigned materials, ensuring timely delivery to production sites.
• Create and update category plans to adapt to changes in the supplier landscape and organizational needs.
• Implement risk management and contingency plans to ensure supply continuity.
• Manage supplier relationships, evaluate performance, and handle expediting and reporting.
• Participate in projects focused on productivity, cash flow, supplier reduction, and innovation to optimize total cost of ownership.
• Drive continuous improvement in processes, capabilities, and systems within assigned categories.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and participate in cross-functional meetings to secure buy-in and address risks.
• Serve as the main point of contact for strategic sourcing of packaging at site locations, leading transactional buying improvements.
• Provide proactive support to supply chain teams at plant locations regarding supply-related issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree.
• Fluency in English and French is required.
• Proven experience managing operations across multiple sites.
• Background in the manufacturing or FMCG industry.
• At least eight years of professional experience, including five years in procurement or sourcing within a packaging category buyer role.
• Hands-on experience with SAP is mandatory.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in additional languages.