Chemical Category Manager

Position Summary

The Category Manager for Chemical category is responsible for defining and executing category strategies across key chemical segments (e.g., actives, surfactants, alcohols, extracts etc), driving cost optimization, supply resilience, and long-term value creation. This role combines strategic leadership with strong analytical and commercial capabilities, ensuring alignment with business priorities while managing supplier partnerships and risk across assigned categories. The Category Manager leads end-to-end sourcing initiatives, leverages data-driven insights, and collaborates cross-functionally to deliver sustainable results and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Category Strategy & Management

• Develop and implement chemical category strategies aligned with business objectives
• Manage full category lifecycle including supplier segmentation and risk mitigation
• Identify and execute value creation opportunities
• Monitor market trends and adapt strategies proactively

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Lead complex sourcing initiatives (RFx)
• Negotiate commercial agreements including pricing and terms
• Manage supplier relationships and performance
• Drive supplier innovation and continuous improvement

Data, Reporting & Analytics

• Analyze spending, market intelligence, and supplier performance data to support decision-making
• Develop category dashboards and KPIs to track performance against targets
• Leverage data insights to identify trends, risks, and optimization opportunities
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of category and supplier data
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date data in procurement trackers to support financial reporting and ensure alignment with Finance requirements

Site Support

• Act as the primary escalation point for supply issues related to managed suppliers, ensuring timely resolution and minimal operational disruption
• Support sites in local negotiations, providing guidance and alignment with category strategies and commercial frameworks
• Collaborate with local teams to ensure adherence to preferred suppliers and sourcing strategies while addressing site-specific needs
• Provide expertise and support on supply continuity, risk mitigation, and alternative sourcing when required

Stakeholder Management

• Partner with cross-functional teams
• Act as procurement lead for assigned categories
• Influence stakeholders and drive adoption

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with policies and contracts
• Manage supply risk and contingency plans
• Support audit requirements

Key Competencies

• Strong strategic thinking and category management expertise
• Advanced negotiation and commercial acumen
• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills
• Stakeholder influence and leadership across functions
• Supplier relationship management and partnership mindset
• Self-driven; leads and influences without authority
• Problem-solving and continuous improvement orientation
• Ability to balance strategic initiatives with operational priorities

Preferred Experience

8–12 years of experience in direct procurement or category management, preferably in chemical categories such as actives, surfactants, alcohols, and extracts etc.

A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field is required. Experience in pharmaceutical, personal care, home care, beauty industry, or chemical manufacturing environment is strongly preferred. Experience in co-manufacturing and decentralized organizations is an asset.