Senior Specialist, Procurement Category Management

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Connecticut, +2 more states.

📋 Description

• Oversee the procurement of key packaging categories for Nestlé Health Science US, managing a complex expenditure portfolio of approximately $30–$40 million across a varied supplier network.

• Collaborate across functions to align on business requirements and implement effective sourcing strategies, supplier selection, pricing, contracting, and performance management.

• Develop and implement both short-term and long-term category strategies along with annual sourcing plans to create value and support business goals.

• Lead negotiations with suppliers to establish contract pricing, terms, and conditions to secure advantageous, cost-effective agreements.

• Propel continuous improvement initiatives and maintain a savings pipeline, ensuring precise tracking and alignment with Finance.

• Conduct market analysis and stay updated on industry trends to inform category strategies and respond to evolving business needs.

• Oversee supplier performance, including regular evaluations and the execution of improvement plans to enhance quality, service, and delivery.

• Actively identify and mitigate supply risks, collaborating with supply planning teams to resolve issues and ensure operational continuity.

• Work closely with commercial and cross-functional teams to maintain alignment with business priorities and uncover opportunities for innovation and value generation.

⛳️ Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree is required; ideally in Business, Engineering, Food Science, or a related discipline.

• Demonstrated experience in procurement category management supporting manufacturing, commercial, and/or corporate functions across diverse operating models.

• Over 5 years of experience with strong subject matter expertise in packaging categories, preferably within the food, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, personal care, or chemical sectors.

• Proven track record in strategic sourcing and category management, encompassing supplier selection, contract negotiation, and implementation.

• Practical experience in developing and onboarding new suppliers while delivering effective business solutions.

• In-depth knowledge of procurement methodologies and supplier markets.

• Experience in leading change management initiatives and fostering continuous improvement.

• Strong project management and organizational capabilities, with the ability to juggle multiple priorities effectively.

• Established analytical skills, including data analysis and process improvement.

• Experience operating within a global, matrixed organization.

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word; familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle is preferred.

🏝️ Benefits

• 401k with company matching.

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage.

• Benefits that promote physical, financial, and emotional wellbeing.