Position Overview:
The Procurement Manager for Direct Materials (Chemicals) is responsible for managing the procurement of chemicals for the Martin Plant and other sites in North America, with a spend of approximately $40 million. This role involves strategic sourcing, category management, and implementing best practices in procurement to achieve annual operating plan (AOP) target savings and align with regional and global procurement strategies.
Responsibilities:
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management:
- Manage the chemicals category for direct materials, ensuring cost optimization and resource efficiency.
- Develop and execute category strategies in line with regional and global procurement goals.
- Utilize competitive bidding, negotiating, RFx methodologies, and market data analysis to drive results.
Cost Savings & Efficiency:
- Achieve AOP target savings through strategic initiatives and process improvements.
- Implement action plans with internal stakeholders to enhance cost savings, dual sourcing, and payment terms.
- Drive process improvements to reduce lead times and enhance contract management.
Supplier Relationship Management:
- Act as a key account manager for selected suppliers, building and maintaining strong relationships.
- Negotiate contracts and manage supplier performance in collaboration with business units.
- Support new product and raw material offerings to enhance top-line growth and gross margin.
Compliance & Process Adherence:
- Ensure adherence to procurement policies and procedures across the organization.
- Promote process excellence and continuous improvement initiatives.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree required; MBA preferred.
- Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in procurement, category management, or sourcing within the chemicals industry.
- Experience in the specialty chemicals and packaging sectors is highly desirable.
- Strong knowledge of the chemicals industry and category management.
- Excellent project management and analytical skills.
- Proficiency in procurement and ERP tools (e.g., SAP).
- Exceptional communication and negotiation skills.
- Ability to influence and drive strategic initiatives.
- Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
Geographical Scope:
- Combination of regional (70%) and global (30%) responsibilities.
