The posting
Amazon's Global Packaging Organization is seeking a Supply Chain Category Principal to architect the supply chain strategy for our global packaging program. This role sets the technical bar for how we source, convert, and deliver packaging worldwide.
As the Supply Chain Category Principal, you will be the decision-maker on end-to-end supply chain process design, the authority on cross-pillar standards, and the architect of the systems and frameworks that every packaging category adopts. You will go deep into global supply chains, from raw material sourcing across multiple continents to converting partnerships and distribution logistics, and pull them into a single, integrated program. You will make definitive calls on process standards, supplier strategy frameworks, and technology adoption, and you will be accountable for delivering measurable commercial outcomes. This role combines deep supply chain expertise, cross-functional leadership, and AI-driven transformation to fundamentally change how packaging procurement operates at scale.
Key job responsibilities * Set the technical bar for end-to-end supply chain process design across all packaging categories, establishing the standards, playbooks, and governance frameworks that pillar teams are required to adopt and execute
* Make definitive decisions on cross-pillar supply chain strategy, including supplier tiering frameworks, sourcing methodologies, risk management protocols, and contract management standards
* Architect the integrated global supply chain program that connects raw material sourcing, converting, manufacturing, and distribution logistics across all packaging types into a single cohesive model
* Build multi-tier supplier visibility across the global value chain, setting the strategic direction for supplier partnerships while pillar leads execute within their categories
* Define and drive the AI and automation roadmap for the packaging supply chain, deciding which tools, systems, and workflows are adopted to make operations scalable without proportional headcount growth
* Identify and deliver cross-pillar commercial synergies through cost optimization, risk reduction, and supplier consolidation initiatives
* Enable supply chain readiness for new packaging type introductions by ensuring the frameworks, supplier qualification processes, and systems are built and validated ahead of launch
* Chair cross-pillar governance forums, making binding decisions on process standards, resolving escalations between pillars, and holding teams accountable to the unified operating model
A day in the life Your morning starts by reviewing AI-generated risk alerts across the global supplier base and making calls on which require immediate intervention vs. pillar-level response. By mid-morning, you're chairing a cross-pillar governance forum where you're making a binding decision on a new sourcing methodology that all categories will adopt. After lunch, you're deep in a supplier strategy review, assessing multi-tier risks across regions and setting direction for how pillar leads should approach an upcoming raw material market shift. Later, you're presenting your AI/automation roadmap to senior leadership, defending your prioritization and making the case for investment. You end the day working with a pillar lead to validate supply chain readiness for a new packaging type launch. The mix is strategic decision-making, technical depth, and cross-functional leadership at a global scale.
About the team The Global Packaging Organization manages billions in annual spend across all packaging categories worldwide. The team includes category managers and leaders organized into packaging pillars (corrugated, flexible, protective, sustainable, and more), each with their own pillar lead. This Principal role sits across all pillars as the strategic architect and process authority, reporting into senior leadership. We are in a transformation phase, moving from siloed category management to an integrated, AI-enabled supply chain model, and this role is the catalyst for that shift.
- 7+ years of working cross functionally with tech and non-tech teams experience - 7+ years of program or project management experience - 7+ years of managing, analyzing and communicating results to senior leadership experience - 7+ years of working cross functionally across several teams experience - 10+ years of supply chain experience - Bachelor's degree - Experience implementing repeatable processes and driving automation or standardization - Experience defining program requirements and using data and metrics to determine improvements
- Experience delivering projects within scope, time, budget and quality
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
USA, TX, Houston - 142,800.00 - 193,200.00 USD annually USA, VA, Arlington - 142,800.00 - 193,200.00 USD annually USA, WA, Bellevue - 142,800.00 - 193,200.00 USD annually
