Summary: This Category Manager role is focused on modern packaging, emphasizing sustainability and supplier compliance within a fast-paced environment. The position involves defining sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring materials meet business needs while supporting sustainability goals. It is a 6-month fixed-term contract based in either Bedfordshire or Lincolnshire. Key responsibilities include overseeing the purchasing lifecycle, tracking market trends, and driving continuous improvement in cost and environmental impact. Strong stakeholder engagement and the ability to balance multiple priorities are essential for success in this role.
Overview
Are you comfortable navigating the detail behind modern packaging — from material types to sustainability standards and supplier compliance? This role sits within a fast-paced, product-led environment where packaging plays a key part in both customer experience and environmental impact. You’ll be responsible for securing the right materials at the right cost, while supporting broader sustainability goals and maintaining strong supplier relationships. Success in this position relies on strong stakeholder engagement, the ability to balance multiple priorities, and a focus on delivering long-term value rather than short-term wins. This is a 6-month fixed-term contract providing cover within the team based EITHER in Bedfordshire OR Lincolnshire.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and execute sourcing strategies across a range of packaging categories
- Identify, assess, and onboard suppliers, building effective and sustainable partnerships
- Take ownership of the end-to-end purchasing lifecycle, from planning through to delivery
- Track market developments and pricing trends to support informed decision-making
- Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure materials are delivered in line with business needs and timelines
- Support contract development to ensure commercial and operational risks are appropriately managed
- Address supply challenges relating to quality, cost, or delivery performance
- Drive continuous improvement across cost, efficiency, and environmental impact
- Contribute to wider procurement initiatives and align with overall business objectives
Stakeholder Engagement
Internal: product development, commercial teams, operations, sustainability, finance, and senior leadership
External: suppliers and service providers
Core Capabilities
Decision Making
Able to assess options and make sound, logical choices
Drive & Initiative
Self-motivated with a proactive, solution-focused mindset
Organisation
Structured approach to managing workload
Comfortable prioritising in a dynamic environment
Strong attention to detail
Technical & Systems
Confident using Excel and able to pick up planning/procurement systems quickly
Previous exposure to manufacturing, FMCG, or similar sectors is beneficial but not essential
Familiarity with packaging materials or sustainability/ethical standards is advantageous, though not required
Interpersonal Awareness
Able to read situations and adapt communication style accordingly
Communication
Clear and effective communicator across different levels and functions
Ensures alignment and understanding with both internal teams and external partners
If this sounds like it could be a good fit and you would like to discuss the role further, please contact becca.addie@alexandersteele.com
