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Strategic Category Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Category Manager Packaging Procurement

Winnetka, IL · On-site

$87K - $118K/yr

This is a high-impact, strategic procurement role for an experienced packaging professional who ... Strategic category management and sourcing expertise * Advanced negotiation and supplier ...

Knape & Vogt

Category Manager

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

Strategic Category management, creation, and development of suppliers in North America and Asia supply chain * Manage cost reductions, payment terms, and Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) for assigned ...

Knape & Vogt

Category Manager

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

Strategic Category management, creation, and development of suppliers in North America and Asia supply chain * Manage cost reductions, payment terms, and Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) for assigned ...

Genuine Parts Company

Category Manager

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Ownership of strategic category direction aimed specifically at enhancing GPC's sales, profit ... Manage relationships with suppliers to both procure and present competitive programs to the market

Aston Carter

Level 4 Category Manager

Somerset, NJ · On-site

$98K - $160K/yr

Own and execute the sourcing strategy for a specific category or sub-category from end to end. * Manage supplier selection, onboarding, and ongoing performance management for assigned suppliers.

Aston Carter

Level 4 Category Manager

Somerset, NJ · Hybrid

Own and execute the sourcing strategy for a specific category or sub-category from end to end. * Manage supplier selection, onboarding, and ongoing performance management for assigned suppliers.

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How much do strategic category manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for strategic category manager in the United States is $105,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,500.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do I need to be a strategic category manager?

A strategic category manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, supply chain management, or a related field. Relevant experience in procurement, category management, or supply chain operations, along with strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills, is also important. Certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Category Management certifications can enhance qualifications.

What is the difference between Strategic Category Manager vs Category Analyst?

AspectStrategic Category ManagerCategory Analyst
ResponsibilitiesDevelops category strategies, manages supplier relationships, and drives category growthAnalyzes category data, monitors market trends, and supports strategic decisions
Required SkillsStrategic thinking, negotiation, project managementData analysis, reporting, market research
Work EnvironmentCross-functional teams, senior management, supplier interactionsData-focused, research teams, procurement departments
Common CertificationsCPM, CSCP, C.P.M.None typically required, but certifications like CSCP can be beneficial

The Strategic Category Manager focuses on developing and executing category strategies, managing supplier relationships, and driving growth. In contrast, the Category Analyst primarily analyzes data, monitors market trends, and supports strategic initiatives through research. Both roles require analytical skills, but the Manager role involves more strategic planning and stakeholder engagement, while the Analyst role emphasizes data analysis and reporting.

What does a strategic category manager do?

A strategic category manager is responsible for overseeing a specific product category within an organization, developing strategies to optimize sales, profitability, and market share. They analyze market trends, negotiate with suppliers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the category's success. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of supply chain management are essential for this role.
More about Strategic Category Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Strategic Category Manager jobs? Cities with the most Strategic Category Manager job openings:
What states have the most Strategic Category Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Strategic Category Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Strategic Category Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Strategic Category Manager jobs are:
Strategic Category Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Strategic Category Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,038 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Category Manager Packaging Procurement

cap

Winnetka, IL • On-site

$87K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 hours ago

Job description

Brief Description

The Category Manager Packaging Procurement is responsible for:

This is a high-impact, strategic procurement role for an experienced packaging professional who wants to shape category strategy, influence cross-functional decisions, and deliver measurable business value. You will own the packaging category end to end—strategy, sourcing, supplier partnerships, cost optimization, and innovation—while directly supporting operational excellence, customer experience, and sustainability goals.
If you thrive in a role where you are expected to lead, not just execute, and where your packaging expertise is valued as a strategic capability, this role is designed for you.
Specific Duties

Primary duties and responsibilities:

Category Strategy & Procurement Leadership

  • Own and execute multi-year category strategies for packaging materials, including corrugate, thermal and cold-chain packaging, EPS, protective packaging, and custom labeling/branding.
  • Serve as the primary decision-maker for category roadmaps balancing cost, quality, service, innovation, and sustainability.
  • Lead complex sourcing initiatives (RFP/RFQ), supplier selection, negotiations, and contract execution.
  • Apply Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), should-cost analysis, and market benchmarking to drive informed sourcing decisions.
  • Expand and strengthen the supplier base, including onboarding qualified domestic and international suppliers to improve resiliency. 

Supplier Relationship & Performance Management

  • Own supplier relationship management, including QBRs, scorecards, and performance improvement plans.
  • Drive accountability for cost, quality, delivery, service levels, and risk mitigation.
  • Build strategic supplier partnerships focused on innovation, sustainability, and packaging optimization.
  • Proactively assess supplier risk and develop contingency plans for critical materials.

Cost Optimization & Market Intelligence

  • Monitor and analyze market drivers (corrugate, resin, EPS, freight, and related indices).
  • Identify and execute opportunities for cost reduction, packaging optimization, and supply base rationalization.
  • Partner with internal teams and suppliers to reduce waste, improve cube utilization, and support sustainability initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Act as a trusted advisor to Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, R&D/Product Development, Finance, and Marketing.
  • Translate business needs into scalable packaging solutions that support operational efficiency and product launches.
  • Provide subject-matter expertise on packaging design, materials, and supplier capabilities.

Contracting, Procurement, Governance & Continuous Improvement

  • Own the full contract lifecycle for packaging suppliers, ensuring compliance with procurement policies and governance standards.
  • Identify and lead continuous improvement initiatives across sourcing processes, supplier collaboration, and category performance.
  • Champion innovation in sustainable materials, cold-chain efficiency, and cost-effective packaging design.
Key Relationships
  • Supplier executives and operational leaders
  • Procurement and supply chain teams
  • Operations, Quality, R&D/Product Development, Finance, and Marketing stakeholders
  • Organizational leadership and committee staff
Knowledge/Skills Required/Preferred

Core Competencies

  • Strategic category management and sourcing expertise
  • Advanced negotiation and supplier relationship management
  • Strong analytical and financial acumen
  • Ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities

Technical Skills

  • Strategic sourcing methodologies including TCO modeling and should-cost analysis
  • Supplier performance management and risk assessment
  • Market intelligence and commodity tracking
  • Experience with ERP and e-sourcing platforms
  • Ability to build dashboards and category KPI reporting
Education/Experience

Education/Experience/Certifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Finance, Operations, or related field required
  • 5+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or category management
  • Direct experience sourcing packaging materials and packaging suppliers strongly preferred
  • CPSM or equivalent certification preferred
Additional Criteria 
  • 10-20% travel required including, but not limited to supplier audits and tradeshows
  • This position is based out of the Northfield, IL office. Candidates must reside within 75 miles of the Northfield headquarters and meet in-office requirements.

Salary Range: $87,000 - $118,000

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