About this opportunity
Insight Global lists this Category Manager opportunity in lansing, Illinois. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Day to Day:
A chemical manufacturing client is seeking a Category Manager to join their team! This individual will develop and execute sourcing strategies for industrial chemical and raw material categories while managing supplier relationships, cost-saving initiatives, and supply continuity projects. The role involves extensive data analysis, including spend reviews, risk assessments, supplier performance metrics, market intelligence, and identifying alternative materials or suppliers that maintain product performance while reducing cost.
The Category Manager will partner closely with operations, technical teams, finance, supply chain, and external suppliers while serving as both a strategic procurement leader and project manager in a fast-paced environment. Success in this role requires a strong blend of technical chemical knowledge, business acumen, negotiation skills, critical thinking, and exceptional people skills. This is a full-time position based in Lansing, IL or potentially Cleveland, OH requiring 5 days per week on-site.
Must Haves:
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or closely related scientific discipline
5+ years of procurement and/or category management experience in the coatings, lubrication, water treatment, adhesives, resins, specialty chemicals, or cosmetic industry
Strong technical and analytical background with the ability to understand chemical properties, formulations, and raw materials
Experience sourcing or managing industrial chemical categories
Experience analyzing spend data, supplier performance, savings opportunities, and supply risk
Strong negotiation skills and confidence working directly with suppliers
Demonstrated ability to build relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers
Experience managing cross-functional projects from initiation through implementation
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, changing environment while wearing multiple hats
Strong communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management abilities
Ability to travel up to 30%
Plusses:
Chemical industry experience supporting automotive or OEM manufacturing environments
MBA or Master's Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field
SAP purchasing experience
ISO/IATF Quality Management System experience
Experience with sustainability initiatives, Scope 3 emissions tracking, or Greenhouse Gas Protocol
Experience introducing alternative raw materials, suppliers, or formulations
Bilingual English/Spanish
Prior experience in highly dynamic, entrepreneurial procurement environments
Worksite address
lansing, IL, 60438, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.