Strategic Sourcing Category Lead

Category Lead

As the largest pureplay adhesives company in the world, H.B. Fuller's innovative, functional coatings, adhesives and sealants enhance the quality, safety and performance of products people use every day. Founded in 1887, with 2024 revenue of $3.6 billion, our mission to Connect What Matters is brought to life by more than 7,500 global team members who collaborate with customers across more than 30 market segments in over 140 countries to develop highly specified solutions that enable customers to bring world-changing innovations to their end markets.

The Category Lead is responsible for executing sourcing and category management activities that support the company's cost, supply, and operational objectives. This role works closely with cross-functional stakeholders and suppliers to support category strategies, drive sourcing initiatives, and ensure reliable supply across assigned areas. The position combines day-to-day sourcing execution with analytical and commercial insight, including supplier selection, cost analysis, and performance management. The Category Lead contributes to sourcing decisions, supports the development and execution of category plans, and helps identify opportunities to improve cost, reduce risk, and enhance supplier performance. This role requires strong collaboration across functions such as Operations, Engineering, and Finance, as well as the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining discipline in execution. It also provides exposure to a range of categories and business needs, offering a solid foundation for growth within sourcing and category management.

Primary Responsibilities

• Support day-to-day category management activities while ensuring alignment with business needs, cost objectives, and supply continuity
• Lead and execute sourcing activities for select categories, including RFQs, supplier evaluation, and negotiations to deliver optimal total value
• Partner closely with sourcing leadership and cross-functional stakeholders to execute priorities and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Analyze sourcing, pricing, and supplier data to generate insights that inform decision-making and identify opportunities for cost savings and risk mitigation
• Track performance metrics and support reporting to monitor category effectiveness and supplier performance
• Maintain accurate pricing, contracts, and supplier information within ERP and sourcing systems to ensure data integrity and operational efficiency
• Support resolution of invoice discrepancies and payment-related issues in collaboration with internal teams and suppliers
• Identify opportunities to improve sourcing processes, tools, and workflows, and contribute to initiatives that drive operational excellence

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required (Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field preferred)
• Proficiency in data analysis, problem solving, written communication, and stakeholder partnership
• Familiarity with ERP systems, procurement tools, or related business systems
• Exposure to sourcing, supplier coordination, data analysis, or operational support activities
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and eager to learn, with a continuous improvement mindset
• 13 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or a related field

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting sourcing initiatives such as RFQs, supplier evaluation, or commercial discussions
• Exposure to manufacturing, industrial, or operational environments
• Understanding of cost drivers and basic total cost of ownership concepts
• Experience working cross-functionally with Operations, Engineering, Finance, or similar teams
• Familiarity with ERP, S&OP, or procurement/payment systems
• Additional language capability (e.g., Spanish)

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, and geographic location. The salary for this role is $75,000-$89,000.

In addition to your salary, H.B. Fuller offers employees a competitive total rewards package including comprehensive benefits, incentive and recognitions programs, health & wellness benefits, 401K contributions, paid time off and paid holidays. Eligibility may vary.

H.B. Fuller is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and proud to have created a collaborative culture where employees around the world are seen, heard, and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or marital status or status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected classification.