STRATEGIC SOURCING CATEGORY MANAGER

BOX PARTNERS LLC•Elgin, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly driven and strategic procurement professional to lead sourcing initiatives and category management across domestic packaging categories. This role combines the analytical and supplier-development strengths of a Sourcing Specialist with the leadership and strategic oversight responsibilities of a Category Manager. The Strategic Sourcing & Category Manager will oversee supplier relationships, sourcing strategies, cost-saving initiatives, and procurement process improvements while also mentoring team members and driving operational excellence across the supply chain. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment and brings deep packaging industry expertise, strong analytical capabilities, and a collaborative leadership style. Working for BOX Partners provides a fast-paced, high-growth environment ideal for those who can thrive independently with career advancement in mind. The salary is commensurate with experience; the range of this position is $80k - 120K. This position is bonus eligible and dependent upon company goal achievement

Requirements

Established network and strong relationships within the domestic packaging and corrugated supplier community
Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Strong understanding of sourcing, procurement, inventory management, distribution, transportation, and supply chain processes
Ability to analyze market data and make data-driven business decisions
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment
Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously
Leadership and mentoring capabilities with a collaborative management style
5–10 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, category management, or buying roles
Experience with strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and procurement analytics required

Nice To Haves

Packaging industry experience strongly preferred
Experience leading projects, initiatives, or team members preferred
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or related field preferred
Equivalent combination of education and relevant industry experience will be considered

Responsibilities

Develop and execute sourcing and category management strategies for domestic packaging categories
Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, supplier negotiations, RFPs, and contracting activities
Establish and maintain strong supplier relationships while holding suppliers accountable to company expectations for cost, quality, service, and reliability
Identify new suppliers and sourcing opportunities within the packaging industry
Drive annual cost savings initiatives and achieve agreed-upon savings goals established with the VP of Procurement
Analyze spend data, market indices, industry trends, and category intelligence to support purchasing decisions and procurement strategies
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance procurement efficiency and operational effectiveness
Oversee item setup accuracy including costs, supplier assignments, minimum order quantities (MOQs), and maintenance of over 40,000 item configurations
Mentor and support buyers and sourcing team members while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration
Support supplier performance management and ongoing supplier development initiatives
Partner with operations, inventory management, transportation, and other internal departments to support business objectives
Assist in developing procurement standards, reporting, and KPI tracking