Procurement Category Manager

Responsibilities

• Develops and executes procurement strategies that drive innovation
• Ensures supply continuity and optimizes cost
• Strengthens supplier stewardship across Balchem's direct spend categories in the U.S. and Europe.
• Defines sourcing strategies and manages stakeholder alignment
• Delivers total cost of ownership improvements through market insight, risk management, and disciplined execution.
• Partners across business units and cross-functional teams to build a best-in-class supplier network.
• Creates an Annual Work Plan and reviews quarterly
• Leads development and execution of procurement strategies with cross-functional teams, including market analysis and supplier capability assessments.
• Provides market intelligence and category expertise to inform sourcing and business strategy.
• Develops and prioritizes a pipeline of sourcing and value‑creation projects.
• Manages RFIs/RFPs, contracts, SLAs, and related strategic sourcing activities.
• Builds cost models, should‑cost analyses, and make‑versus‑buy scenarios for improving total cost of ownership.
• Partnering with suppliers and internal stakeholders to improve cost, quality, service, and innovation.

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, Finance, Operations, Business Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of procurement experience and at least 3 years of project management experience.
• Strong understanding of direct category management; food ingredients or chemicals industry experience preferred.
• Excellent communication, leadership, negotiation, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to influence in a highly matrixed environment and clearly communicate Procurement strategy.
• Proven track record in partnering with senior leadership and cross‑functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, model business scenarios, and identify measurable value opportunities.
• Working knowledge of contracts, sourcing processes, and continuous improvement principles.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; advanced Excel skills preferred.
• Ability to travel 10-30% as needed.