Packaging Procurement Manager

Company Overview:

Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc. is America's favorite candy company, manufacturing and selling some of the world's most popular confectionary brands. Beginning in a modest New York candy store with the Tootsie Roll's introduction in 1896, the Chicago-based company has grown to become one of the country's largest candy companies, with operations throughout North America and with distribution channels in more than 75 countries. The Tootsie brands resonate strongly among every age group, culture, and demographic; for every occasion and event; and during every economic climate, qualifying them as truly enduring, iconic American confections. For more information, visit www.tootsie.com

Packaging Procurement Manager

We are seeking an experienced, detail-oriented and versatile Packaging Procurement Manager to join our team, to oversee the strategic planning and purchasing of corrugated cases, folding cartons, sticks, and miscellaneous packaging components. This individual will play a pivotal role in ensuring cost-effective, high-quality packaging solutions that align with our brand and operational requirements. The ideal candidate will have category management experience, including supplier management and development, evaluating product costs, new item development, market analysis, and ensuring the timely availability of packaging materials. Prior experience assisting with graphics development is a plus. This role requires collaboration with internal teams, including Packaging Engineering, Manufacturing, Demand Planning, and Marketing, as well as with suppliers.

Key Responsibilities:

Category Management

• Manage assigned categories, including Corrugated Cases, Sticks, Folding Cartons, and Miscellaneous Packaging Items, to assure timely availability of quality goods at an economical price. Conduct a biennial bid for all items in major categories.
• Develop supply strategies with a short-term (1-2 years) and mid-term (2-5 years) perspective. Identify weaknesses in the supply chain and find contingency solutions.
• Continually evaluate suppliers and products to assure prompt service and full value for the purchase dollar.
• Stress organization and planning to effectively manage large number of items under responsibility.
• Keep abreast of new and improved products, and industry trends.
• Anticipate needs and market conditions to facilitate timely and economical purchases (e.g. backup supply options and/or communication of lead-times).
• Keep Purchasing management aware of changes in suppliers of major items, changes in market conditions, specific problems in supply or quality, and proposed changes in pack size, style, color, within the Company.
• New supplier development and item trials.

Budgeting and Cost Management

• Develop accurate standard costs and complete cost studies when needed to provide a sound basis for business planning.
• Maintain and audit price files for all categories.
• Conduct bids on new items.
• Long-term budgeting and planning for assigned categories.
• Provide inputs for item-level planning/budgeting (art, plates, cutting dies).
• Invoice approvals – plates, artwork, samples, cutting dies.

Item and Graphics Management

• For assigned categories, manage the workflow for art separations and final artwork approvals.
• New packaging item development – work with cross-functional teams to develop new items.
• Initiate item setup process for new packaging items.

Other

• Ensure supplier follow-up on non-conformances.
• Process sample requests for costing.
• Updating of supplier data.
• Maintain excellent relationships with suppliers and Company departments and plants, to assure a high level of cooperation and service.Represent the Company and Department in a professional manner in all internal and external dealings.

Qualifications:

• Positive attitude.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 5 years of experience in Procurement, preferably in packaging for manufacturing or consumer goods industries.
• Ability and willingness to adapt to changing business conditions.
• Proven category management experience. Specific experience in corrugated cases and/or folding cartons is highly desirable.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement tools (e.g. Oracle, SAP).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively across all organizational levels.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Why Join Us?

At Tootsie Roll, we are passionate about creating delightful treats that bring joy to our customers. As part of our team, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of our packaging strategy and contribute to the success of our iconic products.