Associate Procurement Manager

NONNI'S FOODS, LLCPosition: Packaging Procurement ManagerDepartment: ProcurementReports To: VP of Procurement & SustainabilityLocation: Chicago, ILWork Arrangement: Hybrid (3 days in Office)About Nonni'sNonni's Foods is crafting premium baked experiences that bring joy to everyday moments. For over 30 years, we've been baking authentic Italian biscotti and specialty cookies that deliver both indulgence and quality — thin, crispy, and made with real ingredients like almonds, dark chocolate, and olive oil.As consumer expectations evolve toward clean labels, better ingredients, and mindful indulgence, Nonni's is perfectly positioned at the intersection of premium quality and accessible luxury. We've built the leading biscotti brand in America and expanded into complementary platforms including thin & crispy cookies, biscuit thins, and artisan toast — all baked with the same craft and care that defined our founding.Our products are found in most major retailers nationwide including Costco, Walmart, Whole Foods, Target, Kroger, and Amazon, with growing distribution as part of the Ferrero family since October 2024.Now backed by Ferrero — one of the world's most respected family-owned food companies — Nonni's is entering an exciting new chapter. We're combining our artisan baking heritage with Ferrero's global scale and resources to become their North American growth platform for premium baked goods, while staying true to the quality and authenticity that made Nonni's a household name.We're building something enduring: a brand that brings people together, a culture that values craftsmanship and integrity, and a team that takes pride in making something truly special.Job Overview:The Procurement Packaging Manager is responsible for overseeing the strategic procurement of packaging materials necessary for Nonni's production operations. This role will develop and implement packaging procurement strategies, manage supplier relationships, ensure compliance with quality and sustainability standards, and optimize costs while maintaining packaging integrity and innovation. Reporting to the Head of Procurement, this position will collaborate closely with operations, R&D, quality assurance, and supply chain teams to ensure packaging solutions support business objectives.Key Responsibilities:Strategic Packaging ProcurementDevelop and implement packaging procurement strategies to ensure timely and cost-effective acquisition of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging materialsManage supplier relationships for packaging vendors, negotiate contracts, and evaluate supplier performance on quality, delivery, and innovationMonitor packaging industry trends, material innovations, and identify opportunities for cost savings and sustainability improvementsConduct risk assessments for packaging supply chain and develop contingency plans to mitigate disruptionsPrepare and manage packaging procurement budgets, forecasts, and cost analysis reportsQuality & ComplianceEnsure packaging materials meet food safety standards, regulatory requirements, and quality specificationsPartner with quality assurance and R&D teams to validate packaging specifications and conduct supplier auditsImplement sustainable packaging practices aligned with company environmental goals and customer expectationsDrive continuous improvement in packaging procurement processes, supplier scorecards, and material specificationsCross-Functional CollaborationCollaborate with production, R&D, quality assurance, and supply chain teams to ensure packaging solutions support operational efficiencySupport new product development initiatives with packaging recommendations, cost analysis, and supplier sourcingWork with marketing and brand teams on packaging design considerations that balance aesthetics, functionality, and costCoordinate with finance on packaging cost projections, variance analysis, and budget planningSupplier & Vendor ManagementBuild and maintain strategic relationships with packaging suppliers and vendorsConduct regular business reviews with key suppliers to drive performance improvements and innovationLead supplier qualification process, including site visits, capability assessments, and contract negotiationsManage dispute resolution and performance issues with packaging suppliersQualifications:Experience5+ years of progressive experience in packaging procurement, preferably within the food or consumer packaged goods industryProven track record of managing packaging supplier relationships and negotiating contractsStrong understanding of food-grade packaging materials, regulations, and quality standardsExperience with sustainable packaging initiatives and circular economy principlesDemonstrated success in achieving cost savings and supply chain efficiency improvementsSkills & AbilitiesStrategic thinking with ability to translate market trends into actionable packaging procurement strategiesAdvanced negotiation, communication, and relationship management skillsStrong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detailProficiency in procurement software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Office SuiteAbility to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and influence stakeholdersProject management skills with ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneouslyEducationBachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Packaging Engineering, or related field requiredProfessional certifications (CPM, CPSM, or related) preferredWorking ConditionsHybrid work arrangement based in Chicago officeApproximately 15-20% travel required to visit suppliers, manufacturing sites, and industry eventsCompensationCompetitive compensation package including base salary, annual performance bonus, 401(k), insurance, etc.Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & InclusionAt Nonni's Foods, LLC, we believe that diversity drives innovation and strengthens our ability to serve our customers and communities. We are committed to building an inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. We actively seek to create a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve and the customers we delight.We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and celebrate diversity in all its forms, including race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, and all other protected characteristics. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are dedicated to fostering a workplace culture of belonging where everyone can thrive.Nonni's Foods, LLC | A Ferrero CompanyEqual Opportunity Employer | Committed to Workforce Diversity