Category Manager-Raw Materials

About the Role

As the Category Manager-Raw Materials, you will strategically select suppliers and materials solutions to meet Chemtrade’s production requirements across all raw materials supporting manufacturing locations. You will analyze and calculate optimal raw materials supply costs, suggest cost-reduction methods, and work closely with suppliers to optimize costs, manage contractual risks, ensure security of supply, and align cross-functionally with Operations, Supply Chain, R&D, and Finance. This role is key to identifying and leading productivity projects to improve sustainability, developing category strategies, and helping business partners solve internal challenges.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate cost-effective contracts while ensuring service standards and spending transparency.
• Define and implement efficient sourcing management strategies.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, contracting standards, and corporate governance guidelines.
• Maintain market competitiveness through deep understanding of global commodity markets, feedstock trends, capacity shifts, trade dynamics, and cost drivers.
• Partner with Operations, R&D, Supply Chain, and Finance to align category strategies with production requirements, product development, and budget planning.
• Monitor global raw material markets to identify risks, supply constraints, and commercial opportunities.
• Leverage spend analytics to identify improvement opportunities and drive continuous cost and productivity outcomes.
• Implement supplier performance management, scorecards, and continuous improvement programs.
• Contribute to Corporate Procurement KPIs including cost productivity, supplier risk metrics, and operational performance.
• Lead projects to improve Chemtrade’s overall raw material costs and sustainability, documenting progress.
• Provide support and insights into Source to Pay work process improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, engineering, business, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 8+ years’ experience in the chemical industry (preferred).
• Training/experience in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or other professional supply chain certification (preferred).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and office equipment.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP).
• Strong analytical skills with comfort in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to engage with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Advanced problem-solving and decision-making skills with the ability to analyze complex issues, develop creative solutions, and mitigate risks.
• Strong strategic thinking and business insight to align organizational goals with departmental objectives and drive results.
• Proven track record of delivering tangible business outcomes (e.g., cost savings, market share growth, or improved operational efficiency).
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel nationally and internationally (US and Canada) up to 10%.

Pay

Base salary range: $115,000–$135,000 (USD), plus bonus potential.

Benefits

Chemtrade offers a comprehensive benefits package, including family-friendly benefits, opportunities for career growth, and support for work-life balance. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) provide platforms for connection, professional development, and celebrating diverse perspectives. For more details, refer to the Chemtrade Benefits Highlight Booklet.