Sr. Specialist, Procurement Category Management

Nestle Operational Services Worldwide SA•Bridgewater Township, NJ

5d•$85,000 - $95,000•Remote

About The Position

This role leads the procurement of strategic packaging categories for Nestlé Health Science US, partnering with cross-functional stakeholders to optimize sourcing strategies, supplier selection, pricing, contracting, and ongoing supplier performance—while meeting quality, service, and business requirements. The position is responsible for developing and executing category strategies, leading negotiations, and establishing contract terms, pricing, and sourcing documentation to secure high-value, cost-effective supplier partnerships. The ideal candidate brings strong packaging expertise across industries such as food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, personal care, or chemical manufacturing, along with a deep understanding of procurement best practices, supplier markets, and quality and service standards. Working collaboratively across the business, this role drives initiatives that improve cost efficiency, quality, and service delivery, enhancing overall customer satisfaction while managing a complex packaging portfolio of approximately $30–$40M across a diverse supplier base. This position is remote. Preference will be given to candidates who reside within the Tri-State area (New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut).

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; preferably in Business, Engineering, Food Science, or a related field.
Proven experience in procurement category management supporting manufacturing, commercial, and/or corporate functions across various operating models.
5+ years of experience with strong subject matter expertise in packaging categories, ideally within food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, personal care, or chemical industries.
Demonstrated experience in strategic sourcing and category management, including supplier selection, contract negotiation, and implementation.
Hands-on experience developing and onboarding new suppliers and delivering business solutions.
Strong knowledge of procurement methodologies and supplier markets.
Experience leading change management initiatives and driving continuous improvement.
Ability to lead cross-functional teams and solve complex business challenges.
Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Proven analytical capabilities, including data analysis and process improvement.
Effective communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders across all levels of the organization.
Customer-focused mindset with the ability to build strong, collaborative relationships.
Ability to work independently, navigate ambiguity, and establish effective processes and structure.
Experience working in a global, matrixed organization.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word; experience with ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle preferred.
Broad supply chain knowledge, with exposure to planning and logistics preferred.
Ability to collaborate effectively with technical stakeholders, supported by foundational technical understanding.
Experience in contract development and negotiation.
Foundational financial acumen, including understanding of P&L, budgeting, and cash flow.

Nice To Haves

Preference will be given to candidates who reside within the Tri-State area (New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut).

Responsibilities

Lead procurement of strategic packaging categories for Nestlé Health Science US, managing a complex spend portfolio of approximately $30–$40M across a diverse supplier base.
Partner cross-functionally to align on business needs and drive effective sourcing strategies, supplier selection, pricing, contracting, and supplier performance.
Develop and execute short- and long-term category strategies and annual sourcing plans to deliver value and support business objectives.
Lead supplier negotiations and establish contract pricing, terms, and conditions to secure high-value, cost-effective agreements.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives and maintain a savings pipeline, ensuring accurate tracking and alignment with Finance.
Conduct market research and monitor industry trends to inform category strategies and adapt to changing business needs.
Manage supplier performance, including ongoing evaluation and implementation of improvement plans to enhance quality, service, and delivery.
Proactively identify and mitigate supply risks, partnering with supply planning teams to resolve issues and ensure continuity.
Collaborate with commercial and cross-functional teams to maintain alignment on business priorities and identify opportunities for innovation and value creation.
Support new product launches, technologies, and key initiatives by leveraging supplier capabilities and insights.
Contribute to transformation initiatives (e.g., network optimization, complexity reduction) as needed.
Ensure accurate and timely maintenance of procurement data in ERP systems.
Manage monthly price forecasting and review processes.