Category Manager, Packaging EAME

About the role

IFF is looking for a Category Manager for its Packaging category across EAME (Europe, Africa, Middle East). The role develops and executes sourcing strategies for a packaging portfolio of about €120 million in annual spend, delivering cost optimization, supply security, sustainability progress and long-term value. It is a hybrid position that can be based in Asturias, Spain, Budapest, Hungary or another European IFF office.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute regional packaging category strategies, driving supplier rationalization, specification optimization and procurement excellence.
• Lead sourcing initiatives and implementation plans that deliver savings, productivity, compliance, working capital and spend optimization.
• Apply strategic sourcing methods such as spend analysis, market intelligence, supplier evaluation and supply-base diversification.
• Build and manage strategic supplier relationships supporting innovation, sustainability, quality and long-term priorities.
• Negotiate supplier agreements and commercial terms, and drive supplier performance through structured reviews and continuous improvement.
• Partner with Procurement, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain and business stakeholders to align priorities.
• Identify and mitigate supplier, market and supply continuity risks.

Required profile

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Business, Economics, Engineering, Supply Chain or a related discipline.
• 7+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management.
• 5+ years in packaging procurement or a related category; strong market knowledge and supplier networks preferred.
• Fluent written and spoken English.

Required skills

• Category management, procurement best practices, cost modeling, financial analysis and value-creation methodologies.
• Strong negotiation, project management, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proficiency with ERP systems, preferably SAP.
• CPSM, SPSM or a related procurement or supply chain certification is an advantage.

What we offer

• Medical coverage for you, with optional family coverage.
• Pension plan.
• Life and accident/disability insurance.
• Benefits Club with discounts on everyday purchases and vacation packages.
• Employee Assistance Program.