Category Manager - Chemicals

Category Manager – Chemicals

At Nouryon, we are seeking a strategic procurement specialist to guide our chemicals category management. This role focuses on optimizing spend, strengthening supplier relationships, and driving continuous improvement across our global network.

• Develop procurement strategies at a regional and/or global category level for a total annual spend of 50-100 million USD of direct materials.
• Explore cost reduction opportunities and establish a total cost of ownership approach internally and with external suppliers.
• Actively work to improve commercial terms with suppliers and identify ways to support and minimize spending to meet the company’s financial objectives.
• Engage key stakeholders from different Business Lines to understand business requirements and incorporate them into supplier selection and decision-making.
• Align technical and commercial requirements, secure total costs, and foster long‑term partnership with key suppliers.
• Travel 15–20% primarily within the United States.
• Report directly to the Procurement Director of the Americas region.

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in a business-related field or industry, or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in strategic and operational procurement.
• Proven chemical industry experience.
• Strong understanding of complex market dynamics and critical thinking to develop effective procurement strategies that balance value with risk mitigation.
• Advanced negotiation skills.
• Ability to build and manage stakeholder relationships, ensuring smooth collaboration internally and externally.
• Effective communication skills, able to engage people at all levels in a multicultural setting.
• Conflict resolution and organizational alignment skills.
• Proficiency with MS Office:
  Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
• Fluent in English; additional languages are an asset.

Nouryon is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.