Global Category Manager

Our client is a leading specialty chemicals company with a global footprint and annual revenue exceeding $2.3 billion . They manufacture high-performance chemicals, including advanced coatings, specialty polymers, and functional additives , serving industries such as automotive, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods . The company is committed to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability in their global supply chain.

Role Overview :

The Global Category Manager – Raw Materials will be responsible for defining and executing global sourcing strategies for critical raw materials. This role requires deep expertise in supplier management, cost optimization, and market analysis, with a focus on ensuring supply continuity and mitigating risk. The successful candidate will collaborate with regional procurement teams, R&D, and operations , and drive category strategies that deliver cost savings and supply resilience across the organization.

Key Responsibilities :

• Develop and implement global category strategies for raw materials, aligned with overall business objectives.
• Lead supplier selection, negotiation, and contract management for key raw material categories worldwide.
• Conduct market analysis, benchmark pricing, and track trends to identify cost-saving and risk mitigation opportunities.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, Operations, Quality, and Finance, to ensure sourcing strategies meet business and technical requirements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key global suppliers to ensure continuity of supply, quality standards, and innovation partnerships.
• Monitor supplier performance and compliance with contractual, regulatory, and sustainability standards.
• Drive strategic cost optimization initiatives without compromising quality or supply security.
• Collaborate with regional procurement teams to ensure alignment and best practice sharing across markets.
• Provide regular reporting and insights on category performance, risks, and opportunities to senior leadership.
• Participate in supplier audits, risk assessments, and global sourcing projects as required.

Key Requirements :