Category Manager - Packaging

About FreshRealm

At FreshRealm, we power the future of fresh meals by delivering best-in-class meal kit and ready-meal solutions across DTC, retail, and B2B channels. Our cross-functional Packaging team plays a critical role in developing cost-efficient, high-performing, and operationally optimized packaging solutions at scale.

As a Category Manager, you will be one of two category leads, reporting to the VP of Packaging & Engineering, with ownership of all packaging components within your assigned categories.

Role Summary

The Category Manager – Printed Materials & Internal Packaging is responsible for sourcing strategy, cost performance, supplier performance management, and execution across two overlapping packaging categories:

• Printed Materials
  
  

Includes Ready-to-Heat (RTH) sleeves and printed recipe cards. You’ll take ownership of the make-VS-buy strategy and work closely with Creative, NPD, FSQA, Operations, and external printers to manage artwork handoffs, approvals, and ensure timely, high-quality production and delivery.

• Internal Packaging
  
  

Includes plastic and aluminum trays, films, bags, labels, gel ice, and dry ice across both DTC and retail formats. You'll collaborate with forecasting and procurement to manage supply, reduce risk, and support demand planning. Additional responsibilities include supplier sourcing, SKU consolidation, and packaging spec standardization.

Key Responsibilities

• Own category strategy and performance, driving cost savings, supply chain simplification, and quality improvement across your category.
• Lead sourcing, RFPs, and contract negotiations for assigned categories.
• Track and report cost variances using tools like Power BI, Excel, and Monday.com.
• Interface with ERP systems (NetSuite, NAV, Deacom); experience with one or more is a plus.
• Partner with Procurement and Planning to align forecasts and maintain supply continuity and reduce risks.
• Work with BizDev, Recipe Development, and Creative on packaging onboarding and artwork transitions.
• Maintain and update packaging specs in the packaging pantry.
• Drive SKU rationalization and margin improvement projects.
• Manage supplier performance, tracking key metrics like delivery, quality, lead time, responsiveness, and pricing accuracy.
• Support sustainability goals by identifying recyclable, compostable, or low-impact materials and suppliers.
  
  

Success Metrics

• Achieve annual CPU savings targets for assigned categories.
• Hit SKU reduction and supplier consolidation milestones.
• Ensure 80%+ of packaging spend is under active supplier agreements.
• Launch and maintain supplier scorecards and drive improvements in vendor performance.
• Deliver cost savings and supply continuity for critical categories like ICE and dry ice.
• Provide timely, proactive updates to cross-functional teams and leadership.
  
  

Qualifications

• 3–5 years in category management, sourcing, or supply chain (CPG or packaging preferred).
• Experience managing printed materials and/or temperature-sensitive packaging.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills; proficient in Excel, Power BI, or similar tools.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Proven ability to negotiate contracts and deliver on cost and performance targets.
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced environment.
  
  

What We Offer

• Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, pet and legal insurance)
• 401(k) with immediate vesting and company match
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Paid time off and holiday schedule
• Opportunities for career growth in a fast-evolving company shaping the future of fresh meals
  
  

Our Values at Work

We believe ACTIONS speak louder than words. Our company values reflect this belief:

• ACCOUNTABILITY: Set clear objectives and prioritize your tasks Hold yourself and your teams accountable for meeting deadlines Learn from your mistakes and use it as a learning opportunity to improve next time
• CHALLENGE WITH CURIOSITY: We challenge and engage with each other through curiosity and a drive to innovate and transform. This encourages us to learn from one another, be open-minded to other perspectives and possibilities, and continuously improve and problem-solve with intensity. We persevere through challenges, observe patterns, and pay attention to the details to make connections others may overlook, allowing us to exceed expectations.
• TRANSPARENCY & HONESTY: Maintain open and consistent communication. Admit mistakes and take ownership Document decisions to help avoid misunderstandings
• INNOVATION: Work with the end-user in mind and create solutions that will add value Question existing norms, assumptions, and best practices Experiment and take calculated, data-driven risks
• OBJECTIVITY: Utilize data and make data-driven decisions at every opportunity
• NIMBLENESS: Utilize time management to help stay focused and on task with urgency es and make adjustments accordingly Delegate and trust others to handle specific responsibilities with resources and support
• SUCCESS THROUGH OUR CUSTOMERS: Know your audience and the type of work they expect to receive as the end-result of a project, initiative, or task Seek feedback at different stages to ensure you’re on the right track Foster collaboration among cross-functional teams to ensure you’re providing the best experience and service to our consumers
  
  

Additional Information

Employee pay will vary based on qualifications, experience, skills, and work location. FreshRealm is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and compensation will meet or exceed applicable minimum wage laws based on city, county, and state requirements.



We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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