Company: Ser-
Location: Kempston
Job Description:
Category Manager – Packaging Industry
We are a supplier of packaging services with 20+ years of experience in the retail, FMCG, ecommerce, 3PL, pharma and automotive sectors. We are looking for an experienced Category Manager or senior Supply/Procurement professional who can take full ownership of strategic categories within our growing packaging group, specifically Labels, Bags and Envelopes with exposure to the Far East.
Salary & Location
£50,000 – £60,000
Kempston
Benefits
- 23 days holiday + bank
- Health Cash Plan
- Life Insurance 2x salary
- Catered Lunches
- Salary Exchange Pension
The Role
- Own and manage assigned packaging categories, developing and executing long-term category strategies
- Lead supplier selection, performance management, and commercial negotiations at a senior level
- Manage and develop overseas supplier relationships
- Ensure all products and materials meet quality and regulatory standards
- Work closely with sales, operations, and technical teams to align category strategy with customer demand
- Identify and mitigate supply and commercial risk while controlling cost and availability
- Drive continuous improvement, innovation and cost‑saving initiatives within categories
- Play a key role in shaping procurement and category management processes across the group
- Support business growth through effective range management and supplier collaboration
About You
- Proven experience in category management, procurement or supply chain within packaging or similar industry
- Strong strategic mindset with the ability to remain commercially hands‑on
- Experience managing international suppliers, particularly in the Far East
- Highly commercial with strong negotiation and supplier relationship skills
- Solid understanding of quality and supplier compliance requirements
- Proactive, confident and able to influence stakeholders across the business
- Experience working with ERP / MRP systems
- Candidates stepping up into a Category Manager role with strong Far East exposure will also be considered
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Posted: May 21st, 2026