Sr. Category Manager - Raw Materials

Senior Category Manager - Raw Materials

Hybrid | Chicago, Dundee, 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