Category Manager, Raw Materials Procurement

Balchem Corporation•Montvale, NJ

About The Position

The Category Manager, Raw Materials Procurement develops and executes sourcing strategies for a portfolio of raw materials with approximately $50–$70 million in annual spend across the U.S. and Europe. The role is accountable for security of supply, supplier performance, total-cost optimization, and long-term value across assigned categories. The category manager partners with Operations, Supply Chain, R&D, Quality, Finance, and other teams to advance category strategies, cost improvements, and business growth. This highly visible position requires someone who can work independently, influence stakeholders, and identify opportunities to strengthen supply continuity and cost competitiveness. The successful candidate brings procurement experience in commodity-based raw materials, such as chemicals, food ingredients, or agricultural commodities, and knowledge of market dynamics, supply risk, supplier networks, and cost drivers. The position includes monitoring commodity markets, leading sourcing and negotiations, managing strategic supplier relationships, developing cost models, and supporting supplier qualifications and new product development. Travel of 10–30% may be required as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Finance, Operations, Business Management, Engineering, or a related field.
At least 5 years of procurement experience.
At least 3 years of project management experience.
Strong understanding of direct category management.
Excellent communication, leadership, negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to influence in a highly matrixed environment and clearly communicate Procurement strategy.
Proven track record partnering with senior leadership and cross-functional teams.
Ability to analyze data, model business scenarios, and identify measurable value opportunities.
Working knowledge of contracts, sourcing processes, and continuous improvement principles.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Ability to travel 10–30% as needed.

Nice To Haves

MBA and/or CPM certification.
Experience in the food ingredients or chemicals industry.
Advanced Excel skills.

Responsibilities

Own category strategies for raw materials representing approximately $50–$70 million in annual spend.
Develop and execute multi-year strategies focused on cost competitiveness, supplier performance, risk mitigation, and security of supply.
Monitor commodity markets and provide market intelligence, cost forecasts, and risk assessments.
Lead sourcing initiatives, supplier selection, negotiations, and contract management.
Develop should-cost models, commodity-based pricing analyses, and total cost of ownership assessments.
Identify and implement savings, supplier innovation, and value-creation opportunities.
Present category strategies and performance updates to stakeholders and leadership.
Develop strategies to ensure continuity of supply for critical raw materials.
Identify, qualify, and develop alternative suppliers to reduce risk and improve competitiveness.
Manage strategic supplier relationships, performance reviews, and scorecards.
Monitor supplier capacity, financial health, and market risks.
Resolve supplier performance issues affecting cost, quality, delivery, or service.
Build relationships across Supply Chain, Operations, R&D, Quality, Regulatory, Finance, and Commercial teams.
Lead cross-functional initiatives involving supplier qualifications, material approvals, and sourcing projects.
Support new product development and innovation through supplier engagement and market expertise.
Influence business decisions using category expertise, data analysis, and market insights.
Build and maintain should-cost and commodity-based cost models.
Analyze supply-demand trends, cost drivers, and market conditions.
Develop business cases supporting sourcing and supplier decisions.
Track savings, contract compliance, and procurement KPIs.