Sr Mgr Category Procurement

Overview 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 position supports innovation strategies and make/buy assessments, owns category budgets and forecasting processes, and achieves cost control, cost reduction, and cost containment targets. Market knowledge, operational insights, cost modeling, and data analysis are leveraged to gain critical insights that drive Sourcing Strategies and continuous improvement activities. Responsibilities Develop and Execute Procurement Strategies: Formulate and implement effective procurement strategies for assigned categories that align with company goals and market trends, 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, reduce volatility, and provide a competitive advantage. Present strategies to the C‑suite, execute trades with brokers, and ensure exchange‑traded derivatives are tracked and managed accordingly. Provide budget and forecasts to the organization and maintain market insights. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strategic Sourcing and Procurement Expertise: Demonstrated ability to develop and implement sourcing strategies that align with organizational goals, negotiate complex contracts, and manage supplier performance to drive value and innovation. Analytical and Financial Acumen: Strong analytical skills to evaluate market data, pricing trends, and total cost of ownership. Ability to use financial models to assess cost‑saving opportunities and make data‑driven decisions. Owns delivery of annual budget and ongoing budget/market forecasting. Supplier Relationship Management: Proven experience building and maintaining effective relationships with suppliers, negotiating terms, managing performance, and collaborating on continuous improvement and sustainability initiatives. Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with diverse teams across the organization. Strong interpersonal skills to facilitate communication, resolve conflicts, and achieve collaborative outcomes. Risk Management and Compliance: Knowledge of regulatory requirements and best practices related to packaging materials. Proficiency in identifying and mitigating risks to ensure compliance and minimize disruptions. Education & Experience 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. The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The policy of The Hershey Company is to extend opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on a equal basis regardless of an individual's race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other categories protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. The Hershey Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority/Female/Disabled/Protected Veterans. #J-18808-Ljbffr