Category Manager- Raw Materials Chemicals (University Park, IL)

Verdant Specialty Solutions • University Park, IL

12d

About The Position

Verdant Specialty Solutions is seeking an experienced Category Manager to lead strategic sourcing and supplier management for key oleochemical and commodity chemical categories. Reporting to the Procurement Director, the role develops sourcing strategies, negotiates supplier agreements, and identifies opportunities to improve cost competitiveness and supply reliability. The position works with global suppliers, including those in North America and Southeast Asia, and collaborates with Planning, Operations, R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and Finance to support business needs.

The role offers the opportunity to influence sourcing decisions, build global supplier relationships, and improve procurement performance at a global specialty chemicals business.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of procurement or strategic sourcing experience within the chemical industry.
• Experience sourcing globally, including North America and Southeast Asia.
• Strong understanding of oleochemical and commodity chemical markets, including palm- and coconut-based feedstocks and value chains.
• Ability to develop should-cost models and apply total cost of ownership principles to sourcing decisions.
• Proven negotiation skills and experience managing supplier relationships, commercial agreements, and supply risks.
• SAP experience and advanced Excel skills for spend analysis, forecasting, and reporting.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to turn market intelligence and procurement data into actionable sourcing strategies.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, including the ability to work across functions and with international suppliers.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and respond effectively to changing market conditions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for oleochemicals and commodity chemicals, balancing cost, quality, and supply reliability.
• Identify, evaluate, and develop suppliers across North America and Southeast Asia, building relationships that support long-term business needs.
• Lead negotiations on pricing, contracts, payment terms, and supply agreements.
• Build should-cost models, evaluate supplier proposals, and apply total cost of ownership principles to sourcing decisions.
• Monitor global commodity markets, feedstock pricing, and palm- and coconut-based value chains to anticipate trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Partner with internal teams and suppliers to address supply risks, improve supplier performance, and maintain reliable material availability.
• Track sourcing savings, cost trends, and supplier performance, and communicate market developments and risks to stakeholders.
• Use SAP and advanced Excel capabilities to analyze spend, develop forecasts, and support data-driven procurement decisions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior