Global Category Manager Chemicals

Job Description

This position is responsible for defining and executing the NAM category strategy for chemicals, packaging and other supplies, and for defining and executing the sourcing of those supplies following established purchasing policies and procedures, aiming to optimize total cost, price, delivery, and terms.

This role is on a hybrid schedule of 4 days in office and 1 day from home.

• Define sourcing strategies for NAM Chemicals and Packaging supplies. Executes sourcing strategies locally following the global defined category strategies.
• Lead the sourcing activities on purchasing Chemicals and Packaging, supplies following established purchasing policies and procedures and optimizing total cost, price, delivery, and terms.
• Delivers value through the implementation of effective negotiation strategies that reduce both organizational costs and risks while improving supplier/business partner performance and encouraging innovation from the supply base.
• Maintains knowledge of current trends, supplier capabilities and changes within the category landscape for traditional and emerging solutions.
• Works with internal Legal and Risk Management teams to mitigate risk through the review of both legal and business terms and conditions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors. Responsible for supplier performance review and feedback to vendors.
• Develop, implement and handle robust market analyses / benchmark processes; leverage key insights to inform and support the category strategy development process. Applies knowledge in contract development including key contracting principles, standard terms, laws/regulations and industry standards.
• Collaborate and maintain close communication with users and critical stakeholders to understand their needs and provide timely procurement solutions.
• Utilize SAP and Ariba for procurement processes, including sourcing, contracts, and supplier management.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and best practices in procurement.
• Drive cost‑saving initiatives while maintaining high standards of quality and service.

Basic qualification:

• High School Education.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing of supplies (chemicals and packaging), specifically in sourcing for industrial facilities.

Preferred qualification:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Science, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.

• Knowledge of purchasing processes and workflows
• Proficiency in SAP and Ariba.
• Strong understanding of procurement processes and best practices.
• Experience working with production, quality, and supply chain departments.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strategic and critical thinking skills
• Results driven
• Strong customer service orientation
• Knowledge of supplies and direct materials categories including Chemicals, Packaging, Energy
• Ability to read, interpret and administer contract specifications within the Procurement process
• Ability to continuously improve in a team environment, working with Finance, Industry, Compliance and other relevant areas of the Source to Pay process
• Ability to work under pressure with time constraints
• Minimal supervision with solid decision‑making skills related to the sourcing of Materials and Services with consideration given to Total Cost of Ownership.
• Software knowledge:
  Microsoft Office suite (advanced skill set).
• Excellent organization and follow‑through skills
• Multicultural and global interacting experience is preferred.

• Typical office equipment: PC, telephone, fax

• Primarily climate‑controlled office environment. Requires travel to Company field locations, subject to requirements and management guidance. Extensions of regular working hours are occasionally necessary to…