Global Packaging Category Manager

Iron MountainIron Mountain·Remote(United States)
Other

WFA Digital Insight

As remote work continues to redefine the job market, companies like Iron Mountain are seeking skilled professionals to lead critical initiatives. The demand for strategic procurement specialists has grown significantly, with a focus on sustainability and digital skills. With over 225,000 customers worldwide, Iron Mountain offers a unique opportunity for growth. Before applying, consider how your skills in global procurement, category management, and digital transformation can drive value for a global brand. Iron Mountain's commitment to innovation and social responsibility makes this role particularly compelling for those looking to make a positive impact.

Job Description

About the Role

The Global Packaging Category Manager role at Iron Mountain represents a critical intersection of procurement strategy, sustainability, and digital transformation. As the company continues to grow and serve its diverse customer base, the need for a coordinated and efficient global packaging strategy has become paramount. This role will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive approach to packaging across multiple regions, ensuring that the company's commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction is upheld.

The day-to-day responsibilities of this position will involve close collaboration with a variety of stakeholders, including operations, facilities, environmental health and safety, and quality teams. The successful candidate will need to possess a deep understanding of global procurement principles, category management, and the ability to drive strategic value through disciplined sourcing practices.

Given the global nature of this role, the ability to work effectively in a remote setting, leveraging digital tools and platforms to communicate and collaborate with colleagues and suppliers, is essential. Iron Mountain's commitment to flexible work options and comprehensive benefits packages underlines its understanding of the importance of work-life balance in today's fast-paced business environment.

What You Will Do

  • Execute end-to-end sourcing for corrugated boxes, packaging consumables, and all transit and storage packaging across multi-site, multi-region networks.
  • Develop and implement total cost of ownership (TCO) models to quantify comprehensive total cost and cash impacts, including freight, Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs), and stocking strategies.
  • Structure and negotiate Master Services Agreements (MSAs) and Statements of Work (SOWs) with clear Service Level Agreements (SLAs), pricing indexation, and long-term performance remedies.
  • Govern supplier performance through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs), driving corrective actions and qualifying alternative sources.
  • Integrate sustainability initiatives into global packaging specifications, focusing on recycled/recyclable content, right-sizing, and end-of-life programs.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive strategic value and supply reliability, ensuring alignment with the company's global strategy.
  • Develop and maintain global packaging standards, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.
  • Analyze market trends and competitor practices to identify opportunities for innovation and cost savings.

What We Are Looking For

  • Extensive experience in global procurement, preferably within a Fortune 500-level operations background, with a focus on managing corrugated packaging materials.
  • Strong knowledge of industrial packaging specifications, global catalog deployment, guided buying systems, and Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) or consignment stocking strategies.
  • Proven ability in advanced financial modeling, total cost of ownership analysis, and complex multi-regional commercial contract structuring.
  • Full professional proficiency in English, with additional languages being a plus for coordinating with global suppliers and regional stakeholders.
  • Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment, with proficiency in digital collaboration tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to drive strategic decisions.
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at various levels.

Nice to Have

  • Experience with sustainability initiatives in packaging, including recycled content and end-of-life programs.
  • Knowledge of digital transformation strategies and their application in procurement and supply chain management.
  • Certification in procurement or supply chain management, such as CPSM or CSCP.
  • Experience with data analytics tools and their application in procurement decision-making.

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive compensation and benefits package, aligned with experience and industry standards.
  • Flexible work options, including remote work arrangements, to support work-life balance.
  • Comprehensive health, wellness, and retirement plans, designed to support the well-being of employees and their families.
  • Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth, including training programs and career development initiatives.
  • Access to cutting-edge digital tools and platforms, designed to enhance productivity and collaboration.
  • Recognition and reward programs, acknowledging and rewarding outstanding performance and contributions.

How to Stand Out

  • When applying, highlight your experience in global procurement and category management, especially if it involves packaging materials.
  • Ensure your resume and cover letter are tailored to the role, emphasizing skills in sustainability, digital transformation, and strategic procurement.
  • Prepare examples of how you have driven strategic value and supply reliability in previous roles, and be ready to discuss them during interviews.
  • Familiarize yourself with Iron Mountain's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with these values.
  • Consider creating a portfolio or presenting case studies that demonstrate your expertise in procurement and supply chain management, especially in relation to packaging and sustainability.
  • Be prepared to negotiate your salary based on your experience and the market rate for similar positions, but also consider the overall compensation and benefits package.

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