Packaging Category Manager

Brunswick • Fond du Lac, WI

92d • $100,900 - $160,800

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Packaging Category Manager to lead the end-to-end management of packaging materials and solutions. This role will drive innovation, cost optimization, and supplier excellence across all packaging categories, including corrugated, flexible films, rigid plastics, wood, contract packaging, returnable packaging, and specialty materials. This unique role blends technical packaging engineering expertise with commercial acumen, driving value across the supply chain while ensuring innovation, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Packaging Engineering (or related field), a strong background in contract negotiation and supplier management, and a proven ability to collaborate across diverse internal and external stakeholders—from manufacturing and engineering to marketing, supply chain, and end users. This role also includes managing and developing a team of packaging engineers and a category buyer, fostering technical excellence and strategic execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical discipline.
• 10+ years in packaging engineering, procurement, or category management roles.
• Proven experience in contract negotiation and supplier management.
• Experience managing technical and/or commercial teams.
• Strong analytical, project management, and communication skills.
• Ability to translate technical requirements into commercial strategies.
• Proficiency in sourcing tools, ERP systems, and data analysis platforms.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree or MBA is a plus.
• Experience in a manufacturing or CPG environment.
• Knowledge of packaging sustainability trends and regulations.
• Demonstrated success in cross-functional leadership and stakeholder engagement.
• Familiarity with returnable packaging systems, reusable container design, and consumable packaging lifecycle management.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of packaging engineers and category buyer.
• Set clear goals, provide coaching, and support career development to build technical and strategic capabilities.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative team culture focused on continuous improvement and value creation.
• Develop and execute category strategies for packaging materials and services aligned with business goals.
• Monitor market trends, innovations, and risks to inform sourcing decisions.
• Lead complex contract negotiations, ensuring favorable terms, risk mitigation, and compliance.
• Manage supplier relationships, performance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Lead the design and development of returnable and consumable packaging solutions that meet operational, sustainability, and cost objectives.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure packaging designs are optimized for automation, logistics, and point-of-use efficiency.
• Partner with internal stakeholders including Manufacturing, R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Marketing to align packaging solutions with business needs.
• Act as a liaison between technical and commercial teams to ensure packaging meets functional, regulatory, and sustainability requirements.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or performance.
• Drive packaging innovation through supplier engagement and internal collaboration.
• Ensure packaging solutions align with sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.
• Support lifecycle assessments and environmental impact evaluations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision insurance.
• Paid vacation.
• 401k (up to 4% match).
• Health Savings Account (with company contribution).
• Well-being program.
• Product purchase discounts.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree