Build and manage a preferred supplier network, including: identify, develop, qualify, onboard, transact and collaborate with a high number of suppliers across multiple categories.
Lead complex commercial negotiations and establish long-term partnerships that enhance competitiveness, innovation, and supply security.
Oversee contract strategy and execution, ensuring alignment on pricing structures, payment terms, volume commitments, performance metrics, and risk management.
Ensure all procurement strategies and supplier engagements align with Environmental, Health & Safety standards and Responsible Care commitments.
Lead category RFP processes and develop optimized award scenarios that balance total cost of ownership, supply continuity, and strategic supplier positioning.
Evaluate supplier proposals holistically, considering not only pricing but also capability, reliability, innovation, and long-term strategic fit.
Collaborate with global procurement teams to align category strategies, leverage global scale, and ensure consistency in supplier engagement and sourcing approaches.
Independently lead complex initiatives and strategic projects, driving execution while maintaining a long-term perspective on category evolution.
Build strong, trusted relationships with senior internal stakeholders and key supplier partners.
Communicate strategy, progress, risks, and recommendations clearly and effectively to cross-functional teams and executive leadership.
Qualifications
7+ years of sourcing experience, or equivalent technical experience (Product Management, R&D, Process Technology, Production experience preferred).
BS in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or equivalent degree required; MBA, MS, MSE preferred.
Must be able learn quickly and work in fast paced high-pressure environment where change is constant and needs to be managed with internal and external stakeholders, customers and suppliers.
The ability to multi-task with proven follow-through and adherence to changing priorities and deadlines is required.
Knowledge of the North American chemicals market strongly preferred
High level of proficiency in written and spoken English; Additional Language proficiency would be beneficial.
Strong written and oral communication skills, both Professional and Technical.
Professional communication skills – should be able to communicate with peers, leadership, customers and vendors both via verbal and written communication.
Technical communication skills – ability to effectively communicate technical concepts, findings & recommendations to all stakeholders.
Ability to influence others to adopt new ways of thinking, change habits, increase engagement, and improve processes.
Strong decision making and problem solving capability, to drive for results, action oriented.
Excellent organization capabilities and project management skills.
Professional and effective facilitation skills – should be able to facilitate group discussions.
Collaborative team player - should be able to establish solid working relationships with stakeholders.
Ability to work effectively in a geographically distributed organization.
Knowledge of contract and pricing terms and conditions.
Working knowledge of SAP preferred.
Data analysis skills - Excellent knowledge of MS Word, Excel, Power Point and their higher-level functions such as pivot tables, v-look, formulas, etc.
