Senior Category Manager - Raw Materials
Hybrid | Chicago, Dallas, Nashville or major operating hubs
Our client is seeking a Senior Category Manager - Raw Materials to own one of the most critical and high‑visibility spend categories across their building materials business.
This is a high‑influence role with direct exposure to senior leadership, major global suppliers, and a rapidly expanding North American footprint. If you thrive in fast‑paced environments, excel at negotiation and supplier strategy, and want to shape the future of a multibillion‑dollar supply chain, this opportunity is for you.
What You'll Do
- Lead sourcing strategy for $400M in raw materials spend and influence a broader $700M chemical and metals portfolio.
- Drive cost savings, supply stability, and total cost of ownership improvements across critical "A‑category" materials.
- Build, qualify, and expand a resilient global supply base, including reshoring and supplier growth in the US., Mexico, and Canada.
- Own high‑stakes negotiations, RFQs, supplier selection, and long‑term agreements.
- Monitor global market trends, cost drivers, and supply risk; deliver insights and recommendations to senior leadership.
- Partner closely with plant operations, R&D, finance, marketing, and legal to support production continuity and innovation.
- Support rapid business growth, including integrating new suppliers and materials from upcoming M&A activity.
- Enhance supplier performance through audits, development programs, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Utilize SAP and procurement systems to maintain accurate data, contracts, and material setups.
What You Bring
- 8-10 years of experience, including at least 5 years in chemical or raw material sourcing.
- Bachelor's degree required; MBA preferred.
- Strong negotiation capabilities with a proven record of cost savings and commercial excellence.
- Global sourcing experience, ideally including reshoring and supply base expansion.
- Executive presence with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization.
- Excellent analytical, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
- Experience in building materials, chemicals, automotive, or related industries is a plus.
- Leadership experience is beneficial but not required.
Why This Role Is a Big Deal
- You'll oversee the most critical and highest‑impact material category in the company.
- Significant organizational growth is underway (both organic and M&A) with a fast track toward larger leadership roles (including potential Director opportunities).
- High visibility across procurement, operations, and senior executive teams.
- Opportunity to directly influence a multibillion‑dollar business targeting transformational expansion in the next 18 months.
Work Environment & Travel
- Hybrid: 2-3 days onsite
- Travel: Heavy during initial onboarding to plant sites, then approx. 20%, including two international trips per year
