Assistant Category Manager

The Assistant Category Manager supports the strategic management and optimization of the Procurement organization's packaging category. This role assists in focusing on the category strategy, market analysis, and developing supplier relationship management. The Assistant Category Manager collaborates with various stakeholders, including cross-functional teams and supplier partners, to support strategic goals, such as profitable sales growth, increased market share, and material cost savings initiatives. Essentially, the Assistant Category Manager plays a supportive role in driving profitability and growth within company by leveraging skills in market analysis, strategy development, and supplier relationship management.

Major Duties And Responsibilities:

• Category Strategy Support: Assist in developing and implementing category strategies that align with overall goals, including product portfolio, pricing, and marketing plans.
• Market Analysis Assistance: Support thorough market research to identify trends, opportunities, and competitive landscape.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Assist in negotiating with suppliers, building strong relationships, and ensuring a reliable supply chain.
• Performance Monitoring: Help monitor and analyze key performance indicators to identify areas for improvement and optimize category performance.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work with various internal and external stakeholders, including sales, marketing, and procurement teams to achieve shared objectives.
• Data Analysis Support: Utilize data analytics to inform decision-making and identify opportunities for growth and cost savings.

Key Skills & Attributes:

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to support the development and execution of long-term strategies.
• Market Research: Strong analytical skills and understanding of market dynamics.
• Negotiating and Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with stakeholders.
• Data Analytics: Proficiency in using data analytic tools and techniques to monitor performance.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within teams.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in strategically and confidently negotiating material purchasing categories as assigned.
• Support the security of supply and sourcing supply alternatives or dual supply initiatives.
• Evaluate material supply requirements and risk in support of all new business processes.
• Facilitate material supply agreements with vendors.
• Help establish and execute a strategic sourcing calendar for assigned categories.
• Track and report cost savings initiatives as well as material qualification projects.
• Support contract/floor stock obligations and commodity risk management where applicable.
• Maintain updated knowledge of industry technology and market trends and indices.
• Implement and follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP's).
• Perform other duties as assigned. Some travel may be required.