Specialist Category Procurement

Job Location: Hershey, PA (19 East) 



Role Summary: 

This role will manage financial reporting metrics, data and analytics and cost drivers and market analysis for the Packaging Procurement Team. He/she will support strategic packaging financials, sourcing projects such as new item launches, process improvements, RFP’s and budget controls.

This position will have a key responsibility in maintaining accurate and organized data using clear processes to assist category managers in decision-making. This role requires a foundational understanding of supply chain operations, along with skills in process management, communication, and strong analytics and strategic thinking skills.

This role will interact and partner with: 

Packaging Procurement team, Packaging Development, Supply Planning and External Suppliers


Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

1.Work closely with packaging category managers packaging development, and supply chain finance to establish a short- and long-range financial strategy.  Additionally, this position will develop and maintain the financial models supporting the Packaging team in managing and forecasting commodity cost impacts. A key responsibility is to lead the analysis of Purchase Price Variance tracking/reporting and analysis and the commodity tracker for the Packaging Team.

2. Analyst will be the primary conduit for tracking strat plan and standards financials. Coordinate and update corporate commodities deliverables including PPT. In addition, support the manager on quarterly business updates that drive the financial plan across the enterprise.     

3. Develop and leverage a deep understanding of systems (including S/4 Hanna, PO process, PLM and VIMs, Power BI, etc.) Provide support across the team with setting up and processing POs, cost standard reviews and corrections, PPV tracking, and research by leveraging Excel and PowerPoint to assist with analytics and communication to leadership on packaging financials. Collaborative facilitation combined with effective conflict management will be critical as this position is expected to identify issues, facilitate corrections, and recommend improvements in the process while effectively communicating overall department performance.

4. Maintaining compliance reporting through daily system audits, assisting with the Standards Development, BU, and Strat processes.

Minimum knowledge, skills and abilities required to successfully perform major duties/responsibilities:

• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, particularly with procurement-related datasets.
• Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables, data manipulation, and formulae (VLOOKUP, SUMIF, etc.).
• Ability to create insightful reports and presentations based on data analysis.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (Enterprise Resource Planning) and procurement software (e.g., S4).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data handling and reporting.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to identify issues and propose solutions.
• Effective communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
• Eagerness to learn new tools and technologies related to procurement analytics.
• Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
• Skill in prioritizing tasks based on deadlines and importance.
• Capability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and deliver under pressure.
• Desired Knowledge of procurement processes and supply chain dynamics.
• Understanding of financial principles related to procurement and cost analysis.
• Ability to conduct market research and vendor analysis to support procurement decisions.
• Strong organizational skills to maintain structured data records and documentation.
  
  

Minimum Education & Experience Requirements:
Bachelor's Degree in Supply Chain, Business, Economics, Finance or related field of study, or equivalent, required.  In addition, 1-3 yrs. of Supply Chain, Risk Management, Manufacturing, and/or Finance related experience.