Director of Raw Materials

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute long-term category strategies balancing cost, service, risk, and innovation
• Build deep market intelligence across feedstocks, supply-demand dynamics, and geopolitical factors
• Leverage cost modeling and market benchmarks to lead complex supplier negotiations
• Anticipate raw material trends and align with Technology on cost drivers and material indices
• Partner with R&D to identify and commercialize new materials and technologies
• Support innovation and sustainability initiatives through supplier scouting and development
• Drive dual-approval strategies to reduce supply risk and increase leverage
• Develop and manage strategic supplier relationships
• Lead alternative supplier and product qualification programs
• Ensure supplier performance meets quality, reliability, compliance, and sustainability standards
• Own budget-to-forecast processes for raw materials
• Maintain savings pipelines and track validated financial results
• Utilize cost models and pricing tools to inform sourcing decisions and forecasts
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of category managers
• Build capability in sourcing, cost modeling, and market intelligence
• Foster a culture of accountability, growth, and continuous improvement
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies and controls
• Drive process efficiency and digital enablement
• Maintain strong cross-functional alignment across the organization

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive procurement experience
• Experience in chemicals, coatings, or related manufacturing industries
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Chemistry, Business, or related field
• Proven leadership experience managing and developing teams
• Strong analytical capabilities (cost modeling, forecasting, financial analysis)
• Demonstrated success in cost savings and complex negotiations

Preferred Experience

• MBA or relevant advanced degree
• Deep understanding of chemical markets and feedstock dynamics
• Experience working in formulation-driven environments