Associate Direct Materials Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Take ownership of category strategy and implementation for designated direct materials, such as capsules, screwcaps, wirehoods, and luxury boxes, while also supporting sourcing strategies for glass and cans.

• Create and execute sourcing plans aimed at enhancing cost, quality, service, supply continuity, innovation, and overall value.

• Propel sustainability initiatives in collaboration with suppliers and cross-functional teams.

• Oversee competitive sourcing efforts, supplier evaluations, negotiations, and the drafting and execution of supply agreements.

• Manage supplier contracts through processes including renegotiation, extension, renewal, and performance reviews.

• Establish and nurture supplier relationships while working alongside Brand, Buying Operations, Category Management, Graphics, Packaging Technology, Planning, Finance, and Operations teams.

• Identify procurement and packaging risks, propose solutions, and coordinate cross-functional actions.

• Implement initiatives that yield savings, cost avoidance, risk mitigation, and other quantifiable value.

• Monitor category performance, market trends, project milestones, risks, and savings; provide updates and recommendations to stakeholders and leadership.

• Ensure adherence to procurement and finance policies, ethical standards, contractual obligations, and relevant regulations.

• Assist in continuous improvement efforts and manage special projects or business priorities.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, Accounting, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.

• MBA is preferred.

• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification or formal project management training is advantageous.

• A minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in strategic sourcing, direct materials procurement, procurement consulting, supply chain, or a related field.

• Experience in consumer packaged goods is preferred.

• Knowledge of strategic sourcing, category management, supplier management, and competitive bidding processes, including RFI, RFP, and RFQ activities.

• Proficient in supplier negotiation, contract drafting, contract management, and commercial decision-making skills.

• Proven project management, problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.

• Ability to juggle multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and perform effectively in a dynamic, cross-functional environment.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Experience in supporting new product development, packaging commercialization, or similar innovation initiatives.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and familiar with e-procurement, project management, and data analysis tools.

• Strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and ability to leverage data for developing recommendations and making decisions.

• Fluent in English.

• Must be at least 21 years old.

• Ability to sit and/or stand for extended periods and work on a computer for long durations.

• Lifting may be required.

• Travel is expected to be around 10%.

🏝️ Benefits

• Paid time off.

• Medical insurance.

• Dental insurance.

• Vision insurance.

• 401(k).

• Comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees.