Talent.com
Packaging Category Manager
Packaging Category ManagerBrunswick • Fond Du Lac, WI, US
Packaging Category Manager

Packaging Category Manager

Brunswick • Fond Du Lac, WI, US
30+ days ago
Job type
  • Full-time
Job description

Packaging Category Manager

Are you ready for what's next? Come explore opportunities within Brunswick, a global marine leader committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyond. Brunswick believes "Next Never Rests," and we offer a variety of exciting careers and growth opportunities within united teams defining the future of marine recreation.

Innovation is the heart of Brunswick. See how your contributions will help transform vision into reality :

Position Overview :

We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Packaging Category Manager to lead the end-to-end management of packaging materials and solutions. This role will drive innovation, cost optimization, and supplier excellence across all packaging categories, including corrugated, flexible films, rigid plastics, wood, contract packaging, returnable packaging, and specialty materials. This unique role blends technical packaging engineering expertise with commercial acumen, driving value across the supply chain while ensuring innovation, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

The ideal candidate will have a degree in Packaging Engineering (or related field), a strong background in contract negotiation and supplier management, and a proven ability to collaborate across diverse internal and external stakeholdersfrom manufacturing and engineering to marketing, supply chain, and end users. This role also includes managing and developing a team of packaging engineers and a category buyer, fostering technical excellence and strategic execution.

Key Responsibilities :

Team Leadership & Development :

  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of packaging engineers and category buyer.
  • Set clear goals, provide coaching, and support career development to build technical and strategic capabilities.
  • Foster a collaborative and innovative team culture focused on continuous improvement and value creation.

Category Strategy & Management :

  • Develop and execute category strategies for packaging materials and services aligned with business goals.
  • Monitor market trends, innovations, and risks to inform sourcing decisions.
  • Contract & Supplier Management :

  • Lead complex contract negotiations, ensuring favorable terms, risk mitigation, and compliance.
  • Manage supplier relationships, performance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Packaging Design & Engineering :

  • Lead the design and development of returnable and consumable packaging solutions that meet operational, sustainability, and cost objectives.
  • Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure packaging designs are optimized for automation, logistics, and point-of-use efficiency.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration :

  • Partner with internal stakeholders including Manufacturing, R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain, and Marketing to align packaging solutions with business needs.
  • Act as a liaison between technical and commercial teams to ensure packaging meets functional, regulatory, and sustainability requirements.
  • Cost Optimization & Innovation :

  • Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or performance.
  • Drive packaging innovation through supplier engagement and internal collaboration.
  • Sustainability & Compliance :

  • Ensure packaging solutions align with sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.
  • Support lifecycle assessments and environmental impact evaluations.
  • Diversity of thought and experiences is fundamental when imagining the unimaginable. Certain skillsets / experiences are necessary; however, others can be developed along the way.

    Required Qualifications :

  • Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical discipline. Advanced degree or MBA is a plus.
  • 10+ years in packaging engineering, procurement, or category management roles.
  • Proven experience in contract negotiation and supplier management.
  • Experience managing technical and / or commercial teams.
  • Strong analytical, project management, and communication skills.
  • Ability to translate technical requirements into commercial strategies.
  • Proficiency in sourcing tools, ERP systems, and data analysis platforms.
  • Preferred Qualifications :

  • Experience in a manufacturing or CPG environment.
  • Knowledge of packaging sustainability trends and regulations.
  • Demonstrated success in cross-functional leadership and stakeholder engagement.
  • Familiarity with returnable packaging systems, reusable container design, and consumable packaging lifecycle management.
  • The anticipated pay range for this position is $100,900 to $160,800 annually. The actual base pay offered will vary depending on multiple factors including job-related knowledge / skills, relevant experience, business needs, and geographic location. In addition to base pay, this position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.

    At Brunswick, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the salary range for their role. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the specifics of the candidate's qualifications and the business context.

    This position is eligible to participate in Brunswick's comprehensive and high-quality benefits offerings, including medical, dental, vision, paid vacation, 401k (up to 4% match), Health Savings Account (with company contribution), well-being program, product purchase discounts and much more. Details about our benefits can be found here.

    Why Brunswick :

    Whatever tomorrow brings, we'll be at the leading edge. As the clear leader in the marine industry, we're committed to our values and supporting our exceptional people. We offer and encourage growth opportunities within and across our many brands. In addition, we're proud of being recognized for making a splash with numerous awards!

    About Mercury Marine :

    Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine is the world's leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. A division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE : BC), Mercury provides engines, boats, services and parts for recreational, commercial and government marine applications. Mercury empowers boaters with products that are easy to use, extremely reliable and backed by the most dedicated customer support in the world. The company's industry-leading brand portfolio includes Mercury outboard engines, Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages, Mercury propellers, Mercury inflatable boats, Mercury SmartCraft electronics, Land 'N' Sea marine parts distribution and Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils. More information is available at MercuryMarine.com

    Next is Now! We value growth and development, recognizing that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.

    Brunswick is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is key to innovation and inspiration and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hrsharedservices@brunswick.com for support.

    For more information about EEO laws, click here

    Brunswick and Workday Privacy Policies

    Brunswick does not accept applications, inquiries or solicitations from unapproved staffing agencies or vendors. For help, please contact our support team at hrsharedservices@brunswick.com or 866-278-6942.

    All job offers will come to you via the candidate portal you create when applying through a posted position through https : / / www.brunswick.com / careers. If you are ever unsure about what is being required of you during the application process or its source, please contact HR Shared Services at 866-278-6942 or HRSharedServices@brunswick.com.

    Create a job alert for this search

    Category Manager • Fond Du Lac, WI, US

    Related jobs
    Compensation Manager

    Compensation Manager

    Michels Corporation • Brownsville, WI, US
    Full-time
    Improving America’s infrastructure isn’t for the weak.It takes grit, determination, and hard work to execute high impact projects. Michels Corporation engages 8,000 people and 18,000 pieces of heavy...Show more
    Last updated: 22 hours ago • Promoted • New!
    General Manager up to $70,000 / yr. plus Bonuses!

    General Manager up to $70,000 / yr. plus Bonuses!

    McDonald's • Richfield, WI, US
    Full-time
    McDonald's Franchise Opportunity.This job posting is for a position in a restaurant owned and operated by an independent franchisee and not McDonald's USA. This franchisee owns a license to use McDo...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    Category Buyer Fuel & Air Systems

    Category Buyer Fuel & Air Systems

    Brunswick Boat Group • Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, USA
    Full-time
    Come explore opportunities within.Brunswick a global marine leader committed to challenging conventions and innovating next-generation technologies that transform experiences on the water and beyon...Show more
    Last updated: 22 days ago • Promoted
    Deli Manager

    Deli Manager

    Staffing Support Specialists • Jackson, Wisconsin, United States
    Full-time
    We are looking for an effective and efficient manager to manage the Deli Department, it's operations and associates.The "perfect fit" for this position displays servant leadership qualities and pro...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    Account Manager

    Account Manager

    Werner Electric Supply • Fond du Lac, WI, United States
    Full-time
    At Werner Electric Supply, we're more than an electrical distributor - we're a community that empowers people to grow, innovate, and truly make a difference. Our culture celebrates individuality, en...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    MULTI UNIT MANAGER

    MULTI UNIT MANAGER

    Dunkin Donuts • Fond Du Lac, WI, US
    Full-time
    If you're ready to take your career to the next level with a company that is rapidly growing, then we have the opportunity that you've been looking for. A Multi-Unit Manager (MUM) is generally respo...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    Assistant Manager II

    Assistant Manager II

    Family Dollar • Fond Du Lac, WI, US
    Full-time
    We're seeking an Assistant Store Manager to join our team to help with store operations, customer service, and team development. Duties include, but are not limited to, the following : .Assist with st...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    Food & Beverage Manager

    Food & Beverage Manager

    Dunkin - Baskin Robbins • Malone, Wisconsin, US
    Permanent
    We are currently looking for motivated, inspiring General Managers throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan!.Our Dunkin / Baskin-Robbins General Managers are the foundation of our winning teams ...Show more
    Last updated: 15 days ago • Promoted
    Senior Manager, Plant Operations

    Senior Manager, Plant Operations

    Grande Cheese • Brownsville, WI, US
    Full-time
    Senior Manager, Plant Operations.With more than 80 years of crafting "The Finest Italian Cheeses Money Can Buy", Grande is a leader in the industry! Whether partnering with independent pizzerias fr...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    Multi Unit Manager

    Multi Unit Manager

    Dunkin' • West Bend, WI, US
    Full-time
    Multi-Unit Manager Opportunity.If you're ready to take your career to the next level with a company that is rapidly growing, then we have the opportunity that you've been looking for.A Multi-Unit M...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    Logistics Manager

    Logistics Manager

    U.S. Navy • Slinger, WI, United States
    Full-time
    ABOUT The success and safety of every mission depend on getting needed supplies, materials, and equipment at a moment’s notice. The service members of the Purchasing, Supply & Logistics community ma...Show more
    Last updated: 22 days ago • Promoted
    2025 Management & Sales Training Program (Green Bay)

    2025 Management & Sales Training Program (Green Bay)

    Sherwin Williams • Fond Du Lac, WI, US
    Full-time
    Sherwin-Williams Management & Sales Training Program.The Sherwin-Williams Management & Sales Training Program is an accelerated, entry-level position designed to prepare you for a Store Management ...Show more
    Last updated: 16 days ago • Promoted
    Multi Unit Manager

    Multi Unit Manager

    Baskin Robbins • Hartford, WI, US
    Full-time
    Multi-Unit Manager Opportunity.If you're ready to take your career to the next level with a company that is rapidly growing, then we have the opportunity that you've been looking for.A Multi-Unit M...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    Food & Beverage Manager

    Food & Beverage Manager

    Dunkin • Brownsville, WI, United States
    Full-time
    We are currently looking for motivated, inspiring General Managers throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan!.Our Dunkin / Baskin-Robbins General Managers are the foundation of our winning teams ...Show more
    Last updated: 8 days ago • Promoted
    Convenience Store Manager

    Convenience Store Manager

    Fleet Farm • West Bend, WI, US
    Full-time
    As the Convenience Store Manager, you'll be the driving force behind daily operations, team performance, and customer satisfaction at our Convenience and Fuel Store. This leadership position is crit...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted
    Material Handler - II Lead

    Material Handler - II Lead

    Generac • Richfield, WI, US
    Full-time
    We are Generac, a leading energy technology company committed to powering a smarter world.Over the 60 plus years of Generac's history, we've been dedicated to energy innovation.From creating the ho...Show more
    Last updated: 22 hours ago • Promoted • New!
    Package Handler

    Package Handler

    UPS • Malone, WI, United States
    Full-time
    Job Description • • : As a Package Handler at UPS, you will be responsible for the physical loading, unloading, and sorting of packages of varying sizes and weights by hand. This role is crucial to ens...Show more
    Last updated: 1 day ago • Promoted
    Assistant General Manager

    Assistant General Manager

    Taco Bell • West Bend, WI, US
    Full-time
    As an Assistant General Manager at Team Lyders, you'll support daily operations, develop team members, manage financials, and ensure your store's culture, safety, and success.This role prepares you...Show more
    Last updated: 30+ days ago • Promoted