Category Manager

JTI

Category Manager responsible for M&S procurement strategy at JTI. Leading negotiations and vendor management in a multinational FMCG environment.

Posted 4/29/2026full-timeMilan • 🇮🇹 ItalySeniorLeadWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

This position will be responsible for leading some areas of M&S procurement category (Marketing and Sales) within own Cluster.
The Category Manager will have the entire responsibility to develop a detailed procurement strategy with support from Cluster Category Manager and generate substantial benefit/added value for all categories under his responsibility.
Involvement in all strategic discussions with the management of all categories supported.
Actively contribute and propose initiative in line with business objectives
Proactive and innovative approach/action to support company growth
Execution of supplier bidding and negotiation process in close cooperation with departments, to ensure the most competitive value in terms of quality, price, service and lead-time ratio for the Company
Resolution of issues related to vendor performance, undelivered/damaged materials and services

Requirements

What you’ll need

University degree (Finance, Business, Engineering) and Masters (MBA/MSC)
At least 8 years managerial role in Procurement / Manufacturing Services / Finance preferably in a multinational company operating in FMCG industry.
Recognized strong people management skills & experience (considering experience in managing remote teams as an asset), mixed environment experience factory-market.
International and local project experience is an asset
English (business language) , Italian language strongly recommended
Have full understanding of Procure to Pay (P2P) processes including spend analysis and contract/supplier management.
Proven expertise in leading effective negotiations is required together with:
- Strong proven ability to build and maintain sustainable partnership with internal stakeholders
- Proven leadership skills and people/process/change management
- Financial planning and budgeting
- Effective communication
- Resilience
- Broad knowledge in business information systems and strong computer skills. (SAP a strong asset)

Benefits

Comp & perks

83% of employees feel happy working at JTI.

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

procurement strategysupplier biddingnegotiationspend analysiscontract managementfinancial planningbudgetingpeople managementchange managementP2P processes

Soft Skills

leadershipeffective communicationresiliencepartnership buildinginnovationproactivityteam managementstrategic thinkingproblem resolutioncollaboration

Certifications

MBAMSC