Procurement Category Manager

Job title: Procurement Category Manager

About the Role This role leads the development and implementation of procurement strategies, contract negotiations, risk management solutions, stakeholder management optimization, and supplier value creation. It leverages the Category Management Process to develop breakthrough strategies which optimize value and ensure appropriate risk management. The role also supports innovation strategies and make/buy assessments, owns category budgets and forecasting processes, and aims to achieve cost control and continuous improvement.

What You'll Do

• Develop and Execute Procurement Strategies: Formulate and implement effective procurement strategies for assigned categories that align with company goals and market trends. This includes managing the end-to-end sourcing process to ensure top-line and bottom-line value creation.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliable supply, negotiate favorable terms, and drive continuous improvement. This involves regular performance evaluations and collaboration on innovation and sustainability initiatives.
• Cost Management and Analysis: Analyze market conditions, pricing trends, and total cost of ownership to identify opportunities for cost reduction and value optimization. Implement strategies to achieve cost targets while maintaining quality and service levels.
• Commodity Hedging: Develop hedging strategies to enable budget visibility, to reduce volatility, and to provide a competitive advantage to Hershey. Present strategies to C-suite and execute trades with brokers. Ensure exchange traded derivatives are tracked and managed accordingly. Provide budget and forecasts to the organization, and maintain market insights.

What We're Looking For

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. An MBA or advanced degree is preferred but not required.
• Experience: Minimum of 7 years of experience in indirect and direct procurement or supply chain management within the consumer packaged goods industry. Proven track record in managing complex sourcing projects, supplier relationships, and cost management initiatives.
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Expertise; Analytical and Financial Acumen; Supplier Relationship Management; Cross-Functional Collaboration; Risk Management and Compliance; Knowledge of regulatory requirements and best practices related to packaging materials; ability to identify and mitigate risks to ensure compliance and minimize disruptions.

Nice to Have

• MBA or advanced degree is preferred but not required as an additional qualification.