Role Description
We are looking for a strategic and commercially astute Senior Category Manager to lead complex chemical categories and shape sourcing strategies that deliver sustainable value, resilience, and innovation over the long term. This is a high-impact opportunity for a procurement leader who enjoys connecting deep market insight with business priorities, navigating complexity with clarity, and building strong, trusted partnerships. The role is well suited to someone who thrives in dynamic environments and brings both analytical strength and a collaborative leadership style to their work.
As Senior Category Manager, you will own your assigned chemical categories end-to-end, acting as a strategic subject matter expert and trusted thought partner to senior stakeholders. You will:
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Develop and execute integrated, forward-looking category strategies
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Build transparent cost models and forecasting frameworks to support informed, data-driven decision-making
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Analyze spend, demand, and market intelligence to uncover optimization opportunities and long-term value creation
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Lead make-versus-buy and insourcing analyses using total cost of ownership principles
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Shape supplier portfolio strategies, including volume allocation and thoughtful introduction of new partners
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Lead complex RFP processes and structure award scenarios that balance commercial and strategic priorities
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Negotiate commercial agreements and nurture long-term, trust-based supplier partnerships
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Oversee contract structures, pricing models, performance metrics, and risk mitigation approaches
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Build and steward a preferred global supplier network
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Communicate strategy, risks, trade-offs, and recommendations clearly and confidently to senior leadership
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Ensure procurement strategies align with Environmental, Health & Safety standards and Responsible Care principles
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Engage and influence key internal stakeholders across commercial, operations, supply chain, and technical teams to ensure alignment and support for category strategies
Qualifications
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7+ years of sourcing experience or relevant technical experience (e.g., Product Management, R&D, Process Technology, or Production)
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Bachelorβs degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field (MBA or MS preferred)
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Strong commercial judgment with experience leading complex, high-value negotiations
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Demonstrated ability to develop cost models, forecasting frameworks, and insights-driven strategies
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Solid knowledge of contract structures and pricing mechanisms
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Working knowledge of SAP preferred
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Advanced proficiency in Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP, formulas), PowerPoint, and Word
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Ability to influence and partner effectively with senior stakeholders across a matrixed organization
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Strong planning, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
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Comfortable working within a fast-paced, evolving global environment
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Clear, thoughtful written and verbal communication skills (additional language skills are a plus)
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Strong interpersonal skills with a collaborative and inclusive approach
Requirements
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This will be a remote opportunity with up to 30% travel.
Benefits
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Competitive compensation
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Comprehensive benefits which include medical, dental, vision & 401K
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Numerous opportunities for professional growth and development