Category Manager, Direct Materials NA

Join our team and Be You Be Apar

Aptar is seeking a Category Manager, Direct Materials based in Queretaro, MX.  In this role, you will be responsible for the development, implementation and execution of North America’s sourcing strategies for assigned categories, with spend responsibility greater than $30 million annually. You will also be responsible for the source to pay process and the selection and performance of all suppliers within the managed commodity portfolio. Support business unit objectives, which include setting strategic vision and ensuring the implementation of procurement strategies. These strategies include supplier management, contract management, contract negotiations, and risk management. This role will be responsible for the following categories: Colorant, Liner and Laminate.

As a Category Manager, you will:

• Identify cost-saving projects and opportunities via data analysis and through value-engineering alignment and process optimization. Work cross-functionally to implement sustainable cost-reduction strategies that support long-term business objectives.
• Work collaboratively throughout the Supply Chain as well to drive cost optimization, quality and supply improvements through supplier management, standardization, and negotiations for assigned commodities.
• Develop, advocate, and implement sourcing strategies for assigned commodities to achieve short and long-term objectives, working closely with related internal departments.
• Lead supplier negotiations to ensure best overall cost position for the organization.
• Negotiate, develop and approve contracts, agreements, supplier direction and business awards.
• Maintain a deep understanding of industry best practices, technology trends and educate business partners as needed.
• Work with relevant internal departments on strategies related to changing global regulatory compliance requirements and environmental best practices.
• In collaboration with the innovation groups, evaluate supplier capabilities and establish sources for new technologies and markets as dictated by business requirements. Proactively identify and develop suppliers for innovation.
• Develop and lead the supplier and commodity risk strategy for assigned commodities.
• Utilize available systems tools and processes to optimize sourcing, supplier activities and efficiencies.
• Work collaboratively with team members to prioritize and drive implementation.
• Lead the budget process across Brands for assigned commodities.
• Support sustainability and Supplier Diversity efforts within assigned commodities.
• Ensures compliance to all policies, processes and procedures.

Who we are looking for:

The ideal candidate will have 8+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, plant procurement, and project management and supply chain management.  They will have excellent financial analysis and strong negotiation skills.and be able to build strong relationships across company personnel as well as suppliers.  The ability to communicate clearly and concisely with all levels of the organization including executive leadership and plant operations personnel will be imporant for success in this role.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in a business, finance, engineering, or supply chain.
• Advanced degree/ MBA are ideal.
• CPM or APICS or Green or Black belt Certification a plus.

Required Skills:

• 8+ years experience in strategic sourcing, plant procurement, and project management and supply chain management.
• Contract Management.
• Project Management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the defined Category (Color and Plastic/Film).
• SAP and Ariba knowledge.
• Multi-country experience.

Who We Are

At Aptar, we leverage insights, design, engineering, and science to develop cutting-edge packaging technologies that enhance brand value for our clients and make a significant impact on people’s lives globally. Our innovations transform conventional packaging into advanced dispensing systems, offering solutions such as precise fragrance applications, mess-free ketchup dispensing for kids, and connected technologies that support patients in adhering to their treatments.

With manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America, and a dedicated team of over 13,000 employees in about 20 countries, Aptar is committed to creating impactful innovations for our customers and their consumers.

Our Culture

At Aptar, our success is driven by the individuals who contribute their unique talents and perspectives every day. We believe that when you bring your authentic self to work, we all thrive.

How We Support Our Employees

• An exciting, diverse and value based working environment
• Award-winning corporate university offering personal development and training opportunities.
• Competitive base salary and performance-based bonus plan.
• Contribute to the communities where we reside.
• Innovative benefits plan.

Aptar is an equal opportunities employer. We believe that a diverse workforce is key to our success. We welcome applications from all members of society irrespective of age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief.