Category Manager

Ascend Performance Materials•Houston, TX

About The Position

Ascend Performance Materials is a global leader in high-performance chemicals, fibers and plastics, committed to enhancing quality of life through innovation. With fully integrated manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia, we develop essential solutions that drive safer vehicles, cleaner energy, advanced medical devices, and durable consumer goods. Guided by a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and customer success, we operate responsibly while delivering value through cutting-edge technologies and industry expertise. Join our team and be part of a collaborative environment where your work drives meaningful global impact. The Category Manager – Direct Materials leads sourcing strategy and execution for critical raw material categories, including Nylon Additives, Packaging, and Cylinder Gases. This role owns supplier strategy, commercial negotiations, and category performance while partnering closely across the organization to ensure reliable supply across manufacturing sites.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field.
7+ years of experience in procurement, supply chain, sales, marketing, or engineering supporting manufacturing.
Knowledge of sourcing processes, contracts, and procurement systems.
Strategic category management capability, with the ability to develop and execute multi-year sourcing strategies.
Analytical and financial acumen, including ability to interpret market, cost, and performance data.
Process discipline and continuous improvement mindset, with the ability to implement structured sourcing processes, ensure data integrity, and improve procurement performance.
Effective communication and influencing skills across functions and levels of the organization.
Ability to build strong cross-functional partnerships with Planning, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance, and Legal.
Sound judgment and risk management capability in dynamic supply environments.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute multi-year sourcing strategies for assigned categories.
Define sourcing approaches (contracts, spot, dual sourcing) aligned to market conditions and demand.
Lead supplier selection, qualification, and long-term partnership development.
Lead negotiations and manage contracts to optimize cost, service, and risk.
Serve as the primary commercial interface with strategic suppliers.
Establish and drive supplier performance metrics and improvement actions.
Monitor market dynamics, cost drivers, and emerging risks.
Translate insights into sourcing actions and risk mitigation plans.
Support sustainability initiatives, including alternative materials and sourcing strategies.
Partner with Business Line and Planning to align sourcing with demand forecasts and inventory strategies.
Collaborate with broader procurement team to ensure efficient execution and supplier onboarding.
Work across Business Line, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance, and Legal to align priorities.
Deliver cost savings and working capital improvements.
Track category and supplier performance against defined metrics.
Ensure compliance with procurement policies and standards.