Category Manager - Direct Food Contact Packaging

Job Purpose:

The Category Manager must help lead the Veritiv’s Commercial Go-To-Market Transformation. The role is responsible for setting the vision / strategy / execution plan for a highly complex product portfolio in the Direct Food Packaging space. This role will establish: Where to Play, How to Win, and what Capabilities & Tracking are needed to achieve their specific financial targets. This position will work closely across sales & marketing teams to ensure understanding and complete execution of the programs to drive sales. Activities will include product marketing, financial management, product lifecycle management, support for selling activities, implementing sales strategies, promotions and pricing/cost.

Job Responsibilities:

● Manages all aspects of product & vendor management including: strategy, programs to create demand, financials, cross functional & vendor relationships, product selection, negotiation and deal closure.
● Financial management including sales results, item lifecycle, returns, margins, program dollars, terms & conditions, and corporate goals, supported by Finance Team.
● Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the assigned product line.
● Analyzes product category performance and makes decisions to maximize sales performance as well as income performance.
● Develop product plans & strategy to stakeholders to ensure understanding and alignment with overall plans, program direction, and needed actions.
● Product Promotions – creation, management and tracking.
● Directly Manages / develops a team of Product Specialists (and/or) Field Sourcing.
● Analyze and Rationalize Product Portfolio.
● Cost management process including negotiations, vendor compliance, and system implementation.

Additional Responsibilities & Qualifications:

● 10+ years product management, marketing, procurement and/or supply chain experience.
● Subject Matter Expert of Food Contact Packaging.
● Understands financial systems and metrics.
● Understanding of supply chain and vendor manufacturing.
● Excellent written & verbal communication skills.
● Expert negotiation skills and relationship building.
● Demonstrated ability to present and clearly define sourcing strategy to varied audiences.
● Metrics driven: strong analytical skills are a must, including the ability to absorb and process large amounts of data into actionable information
● Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills.

Work Experience:

● 10-15 years of related experience of successful management or supervisory experience within a large or national organization strongly preferred.
● 10-15 years of related experience of successful supervisory/management experience required to motivate and develop direct reports, as well as size up new talent.
● 10-15 years of related job experience.
● Ability to manage multiple projects, work under pressure, and adapt to sudden changes in the work environment.
● Basic experience of simple office/operational systems.
● Excellent verbal, written, people, and diplomacy skills are required.
● Experienced in providing leadership to others regarding work related systems, processes, and challenges.
● Experience of interpreting strategy and policy in order to set and deliver objectives.
● Experience of planning, managing and organizing resources within short/medium timescales within the overall policy framework.
● Strong customer service skills (friendly, courteous and helpful).
● Strong planning and organization skills are required.

Education:

● Bachelor's Degree Preferred

What We Offer

• Engaging and inclusive culture with employee-led Employee Resource Groups, Veritiv Cultural Alliance, recognition platform, etc.
• Extensive training opportunities, professional development programs, career pathing, and mentorship opportunities.
• Collaborative atmosphere with our customers and suppliers to create healthier, safer and more sustainable communities through our responsible operations and innovative solutions.
• Healthcare benefits (including medical, dental, vision, and health savings account), life, AD&D, and disability insurance, 401k, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, and other fringe benefits.

About Veritiv

Together with its subsidiaries, Veritiv is the leading full-service provider of packaging solutions. Veritiv also provides JanSan, hygiene, print and publishing products and services. Veritiv serves customers in a wide range of industries, through team members around the world helping shape the success of its customers. For more information, visit www.veritiv.com and connect with the Company on LinkedIn.