Packaging Category Manager

Packaging Category Manager Jacksonville Florida Our client, a distributor of packaging, fine paper, and related business supplies, is seeking a Packaging Category Manager to develop and execute the commercial strategy for its packaging category. You will work with Sales, Purchasing, Finance, Supply Chain Analytics, and supplier partners to improve product mix, supplier programs, margins, rebate performance, and inventory productivity. Responsibilities: Develop category strategies and action plans aligned with growth, margin, supplier, inventory, and customer objectives. Evaluate product expansion, private label, preferred supplier programs, substitutions, and cross-selling opportunities. Lead supplier negotiations involving rebates, cost changes, and strategic programs; identify and qualify alternative suppliers. Analyze sales, gross margin, rebate income, SKU productivity, supplier performance, and inventory turns; address underperforming products and programs. Provide pricing guidance and support margin expectations as supplier costs and market conditions change. Partner with Sales and Finance to evaluate customer profitability, deal economics, stocking commitments, inventory exposure, and exit plans. Support Sales with sourcing requests, prioritizing core products and identifying suitable alternatives when needed. Maintain substitute item options and coordinate with Purchasing on lead times, fill rates, backorders, service issues, and supply disruptions. Monitor customer demand, competitive activity, supplier developments, and category trends to inform commercial decisions. Qualifications: Packaging and/or fine-paper background, with relevant experience in category management, purchasing, strategic sourcing, product management, or related supply-chain work. Experience managing supplier relationships and negotiating commercial terms. Ability to translate sales, margin, rebate, and inventory data into practical recommendations and action. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, comfort analyzing large datasets, and familiarity with database management. Understanding of inventory management and supply-chain principles, with strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Statistics, or a related field preferred; equivalent work experience considered. Wholesale distribution experience and exposure to ERP systems, planning tools, or business intelligence platforms are preferred. Successful completion of a drug screen and criminal background check is required. Our client is an equal opportunity employer.

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