Global Category Manager - Indirect Procurement

Global Category Manager - Indirect Procurement

Shape the Future with Us. At Lubrizol, we're bringing to life the chemistry behind clean water, efficient transportation, reliable infrastructure, critical medicines, and the products people rely on every day through science, sustainability, and a culture of inclusion. As part of our global team, you'll be empowered to make a real impact - on your career, your community, and the world around you. Job Location: Wickliffe, OH, or Brecksville, OH (with planned transition to Wickliffe, OH in 2028) or Deer Park, TX. As Lubrizol approaches its centennial in 2028, our Wickliffe campus will become the unified home of Lubrizol's global headquarters, integrating Lubrizol's Brecksville site capabilities and employees to the Wickliffe campus. Job type: Full-Time. Collaborate in person 4 days each week, with 1 flexible remote day.

How You'll Make an Impact As a Global Category Manager – Indirect Procurement, you'll be at the forefront of shaping our global sourcing strategy, driving value across a diverse portfolio of suppliers, services, and equipment. In this highly visible role, you will partner with cross-functional and regional teams to optimize total cost of ownership, strengthen supply chain resilience, and unlock supplier-driven innovation. Your strategic leadership and market insight will directly influence business performance, enabling sustainable growth, competitive advantage, and operational excellence on a global scale.

In this role, you will:

• Manage a global portfolio of indirect procurement categories within a complex, matrixed organization.
• Develop and execute multi-year category strategies focused on total cost of ownership, quality, service, and innovation.
• Source, evaluate, and onboard global suppliers while leading contract negotiations and establishing master service agreements.
• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to align procurement strategies with broader business objectives.
• Drive supplier performance management, continuous improvement, and supplier-enabled innovation initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, diversification, and risk mitigation across global markets.
• Lead pricing strategies and negotiations to achieve cost savings and productivity targets.
• Leverage market intelligence and industry best practices to strengthen competitive positioning.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, regulatory requirements, and health, safety, environment, and security standards.
• Monitor and report category performance, including cost trends, risks, and value delivery.

Required Qualifications that Enable Your Success

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain, preferably within the chemical or manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience developing and implementing global sourcing or category management strategies.
• Strong negotiation, contracting, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across global, cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational capabilities.
• Knowledge of global regulatory, legal, tax, and import/export requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and digital business systems.

Preferred Qualifications that Drive You Forward

• Advanced degree such as an MBA or master's in a related discipline.
• Experience with enterprise resource planning systems such as SAP and business intelligence tools like Power BI.
• Background in data analytics and procurement performance reporting.
• Knowledge of company products, manufacturing processes, and global asset footprint.
• Formal training in strategy development and execution.

Your Work Environment

At Lubrizol, we're committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where you can do your best work—whether in a lab, on the production floor, or in a hybrid office setting. Depending on your role, your work environment may include:

• Standing, walking, or operating equipment for extended periods
• Working in a lab or manufacturing setting with appropriate PPE provided
• Use of computers and digital tools in an office or hybrid environment
• Occasional lifting or movement of materials
• Adherence to rigorous safety protocols and ergonomic standards

We continuously invest in our facilities and technologies to ensure they support your well-being, productivity, and growth. If you require reasonable accommodation, we are committed to working with you to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience.

Benefits that Empower You

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus plans
• 401(k) match + Age-Weighted Defined Contribution
• Comprehensive medical, dental & vision coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid holidays, vacation, and parental leave
• Flexible work environment
• Learning and development opportunities
• Career and professional growth
• Inclusive culture and vibrant community engagement

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