Category Specialist

North American Distillers (NADL) is a distinguished manufacturer of premium American Whiskeys, including celebrated brands such as Jefferson's, Rabbit Hole, TX Whiskey, Skrewball, and Smooth Ambler. As part of Pernod Ricard, a leading global premium spirits and wine company, NADL is embedded within a family that also manages iconic brands like ABSOLUT Vodka, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Malibu, Kahlúa Liqueur, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskey, among many other superior wines and exquisite champagnes. NADL embodies a culture of conviviality—a French-derived term embodying human connection, authenticity, friendliness, and a jovial spirit. This lively and spirited ethos shapes not only the workplace culture but also drives the passion and commitment of the entire team at NADL and Pernod Ricard.

Working at NADL offers a chance to be part of a team grounded in four core values: being grounded in the real, fiercely authentic, passionate about challenge, and connected beyond borders. These values foster an environment of teamwork, innovation, and a desire to live life fully while supporting personal and professional growth. Employees at NADL describe themselves as dream makers, trailblazers, movers, and (cocktail) shakers, committed to realizing their potentials and making new connections each day.

The role to be filled is based in Louisville, KY, with a salary range of $61,300.00 to $76,570.00, though the range may vary based on location. The compensation is carefully determined during the interview process by evaluating candidates' experience, skills, and the responsibilities associated with the position. This ensures fair and competitive pay aligned with internal peers and business objectives.

The position focuses on managing assigned packaging categories within the manufacturing and co-packing operations at Pernod Ricard North America. It is a pivotal role that demands a balance between strategic planning and operational execution. Responsibilities span supply continuity, cost optimization, supplier relationship management, and long-term category planning. The role involves collaboration with multiple departments such as Operations, Quality, Innovation, Finance, and Supply Chain to proactively manage procurement activities, mitigate risks, support innovation initiatives, and drive value through strategic sourcing and financial discipline.

This position serves as a strategic business partner and is integral to the company's long-term procurement transformation agenda. In this capacity, the role holder will develop and implement annual sourcing plans, conduct market intelligence and cost analysis, lead supplier negotiations, and ensure supply continuity via contingency planning and risk management. They will maintain financial oversight by supporting budgeting processes and monitoring cost variances while implementing cost mitigation strategies related to inflation, commodity volatility, freight, and supplier changes.

Supplier relationship management is crucial, involving the nurturing of strategic partnerships focused on long-term performance and continuous improvement in quality, service, innovation, and cost competitiveness. The role also supports innovation and new product development by collaborating closely with packaging development and operations teams to meet commercialization timelines and ensure procurement readiness for product launches.

Procurement excellence is emphasized through the maintenance of procurement dashboards, reporting tools, and the enhancement of data visibility for leadership decision-making. This role further seeks to identify opportunities for automation within procurement workflows, driving efficiency and effectiveness.

North American Distillers offers a workplace rich in heritage, energized by iconic brands, and committed to sustainability, safety, and community engagement. The inclusive culture cherishes diversity and individuality, fostering a sense of belonging crucial for employee happiness and success. The company strives to provide flexibility that allows employees to contribute meaningfully while enjoying a work-life balance. Benefits and perks are competitive and designed to support employees' well-being, reflecting the company’s commitment to its people. NADL embraces equal opportunity employment, ensuring fair hiring and advancement practices free from discrimination, and provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.