Position Overview
The Regional Category Manager plays a key role in formulating and implementing sourcing strategies tailored to specific categories that contribute to long-term competitive advantage. This position collaborates with regional, global, and cross-functional partners to maximize cost savings, foster innovation, enhance supplier performance, and effectively manage risk across assigned spending areas.
Primary Responsibilities
Category Strategy & Sourcing
- Design and execute sourcing plans at both local and regional levels that align with overall business objectives and global category direction.
- Manage the entire 5-Step Sourcing Process, securing stakeholder agreement and formal approval for strategies.
- Pursue opportunities for value generation, such as cost reduction, value engineering, and supplier-driven innovation.
Supplier Relationship Management
- Develop and sustain long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers.
- Conduct routine performance assessments (quarterly and annually) for key suppliers.
- Lead contract negotiations to achieve competitive pricing and service quality.
Stakeholder Collaboration
- Build strong networks across regional and functional leadership, including Operations, R&D, Innovation, and Plant General Managers.
- Engage in critical business discussions to ensure sourcing activities support operational and strategic goals.
Performance Tracking & Data Management
- Monitor and document sourcing achievement, including cost reductions and innovation efforts, via the SIP pipeline.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date sourcing and spend data, including master records, classifications, forecasts, and timelines.
- Contribute insights on market trends and provide visibility on category performance.
Key Performance Indicators
- Delivery of agreed cost in/out targets
- Proportion of spend under active contracts
- Savings captured and reported via SIP
- Number and execution of identified innovation initiatives
- Precision and punctuality of sourcing and spend data
Experience & Qualifications Required
- At least 5 years in sourcing or procurement within a multinational company
- Experience managing procurement for petrochemicals (preferably polystyrene) and liquid industrial chemicals
- Demonstrated impact on cost savings and financial improvement
- Success in contract negotiations, total cost of ownership analysis, risk management, and responsible sourcing practices
Core Skills & Competencies
- Expertise in category management and sourcing processes
- Proficiency in supplier evaluation and negotiation
- Strong financial acumen—budgeting and forecasting skills
- Analytical mindset with strong negotiation and influencing abilities
- Understanding of international trade (e.g., Incoterms, letters of credit)
- Project management capabilities, adept at handling multiple priorities
- Ability to collaborate effectively across cultures
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