Category Sourcing Lead - Ingredients and Packaging

Category Sourcing Lead - Ingredients and Packaging We believe great people build great brands. And we know there is Nothing Better in the Market than a career at Brown‑Forman. Being a part of Brown‑Forman means you will grow both personally and professionally, solving problems, seizing opportunities, and generating bold ideas in a collaborative environment. Join our team as a Category Sourcing Manager Lead – Ingredients and Packaging , leading ingredient and packaging procurement in spirits manufacturing operations. The role focuses on driving market analysis, mitigating risks, and delivering value through strategic supplier relationships. Responsibilities include negotiating and implementing commercial agreements, resolving supplier disputes, and coordinating regional and local sourcing efforts, while supporting strategic sourcing strategies and leveraging financial systems to optimize procurement processes. Key Responsibilities Lead end‑to‑end sourcing market analysis, risk mitigation, and value delivery for designated categories. Assist in the development and implementation of global category strategies, aligning with R&D, Packaging, and Global Supplier Quality. Lead sourcing activities to support New Product Development (NPD) and acquired brands. Architect equitable, ethical, and strategic supplier relationships, serving as the primary point of contact for suppliers in designated categories. Negotiate commercial agreements and resolve supplier disputes. Lead supplier development efforts, maintaining key performance metrics (KPIs) and consistent onboarding/renewal processes. Partner with Global Supplier Quality to ensure all specifications and standards are met or exceeded. Execute effective cost‑reduction strategies and leverage spend systems to maximize financial efficiency. Oversee tactical execution at the site level, providing direction on pricing, timing, and vendor selection to production facilities. Manage necessary administrative functions, including PO processing and system maintenance. Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance or a related field; or CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) / equivalent certification, with a minimum of 4 years sourcing and supply‑chain experience (including at least 4 years in sourcing) preferably in a beverage, food or consumer‑goods commodity‑driven environment. Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to persuade, motivate and secure support for key ideas and initiatives through persuasive discussions and clear, concise presentations. Capability to work in a fast‑moving environment and manage multiple assignments simultaneously. Demonstrated ability to work and communicate with diverse global teams. Strong analytical and investigative/root‑cause skills, providing tactical and strategic support to the department and global organization. Excellent organization skills with meticulous attention to detail. Ability to travel to suppliers and bottling facilities (up to 10 %). Working Arrangement In‑office at the Brown‑Forman Louisville, Kentucky Corporate Headquarters Monday to Thursday, with flexibility to work remotely on Fridays. Benefits & Compensation Total Rewards at Brown‑Forman is designed to engage our people to ensure sustainable and profitable growth for generations to come. We offer equitable pay structures, base salary, holiday bonus, incentives, and a range of premium benefits that reflect our values and meet the needs of our diverse workforce. EEO Statement Brown‑Forman Corporation is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment. It is the policy of Brown‑Forman Corporation to provide full and equal employment opportunities to all employees and potential employees without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, veteran status, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, or any other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Brown-Forman Australia Pty. Ltd.