Global Category Manager - Basic Chemicals & Intermediates

Arxada; Bellprat; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Arxada is seeking a Global Category Manager to lead the Basic Chemicals & Intermediates category, representing ~30m CHF annual spend, and to shape strategies that deliver measurable value and strengthen Arxada’s sustainability objectives. You will build market intelligence by analyzing supply economics, technology trends and cost drivers to translate insights into actionable procurement strategies.

As the primary strategic interface for Business Units, you will clarify requirements, enable

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Business; Master’s degree preferred.
• 5+ years in strategic procurement, chemical industry experience.
• Strong data analysis and ability to lead complex sourcing projects.
• Fluency in English; German is a plus.
• Experience with supplier negotiations and contract management.

Responsibilities

• Lead global category strategy for Basic Chemicals & Intermediates (~30m CHF spend).
• Analyze market trends, cost drivers, and supply economics.
• Interface with Business Units to clarify requirements and enable decisions.
• Drive cost savings and supply continuity through structured sourcing and pipeline development.
• Lead supplier relationships and audits across international operations.

Skills

Strategic procurement

Data analysis

Stakeholder mgmt

Negotiation

Communication

SAP

English fluency

German a plus

Contract management

Education

Bachelor in Chemistry/Business

Master preferred

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

Arxada is a global leader in innovative solutions that protect our world. Our groundbreaking technologies, in-depth regulatory know-how, manufacturing and process development help our customers to safeguard nutrition, health and infrastructure efficiently through chemistry and biotechnology that enhance sustainability. We offer a broad portfolio of ingredients and services for multiple end-markets that include Human Health & Nutrition, Home & Personal Care, Professional Hygiene, Paints & Coatings and Wood Protection. With customers in more than 100 countries, the company achieved sales of CHF 2 billion in 2024. Headquartered in Basel (Switzerland), Arxada employs 3,200 associates across 24 production sites and 14 R&D centers, all committed to our customers’ success.As a Global Category Manager you will be a vital contributor to Arxada’s Direct Procurement organization. In this role, you will take accountability for the global Basic Chemicals & Intermediates category, shaping strategies that deliver measurable value, enhance our sustainability ambitions, and strengthen Arxada’s competitive position. You will collaborate cross-functionally with Business Units, Operations, Quality and Supply Chain teams worldwide to secure supply continuity, improve total cost of ownership, and drive impactful sourcing decisions that support Arxada’s growth trajectory.Essential Job Functions:Lead the global category strategy for Basic Chemicals & Intermediates, representing ~30m CHF annual spend, ensuring alignment with business needs and Arxada’s sustainability objectivesBuild deep market intelligence by analyzing supply economics, technology trends and cost drivers, translating insights into actionable procurement strategiesAct as the primary strategic interface for Business Units—clarifying requirements, enabling informed decisions and driving proactive stakeholder engagementEnsure robust supply assurance: identify risks, develop mitigation plans and support implementation of alternative sources when neededDeliver competitive pricing, cost savings and Net Working Capital improvements through structured sourcing and continuous pipeline developmentLead global supplier relationship management, strengthening performance, compliance and long-term partnerships, including active participation in supplier auditsChampion continuous improvement by challenging the status quo and identifying opportunities for innovation, efficiency and category excellenceQualifications & Experience:Bachelor’s degree required in Chemistry or Business; Master’s degree preferredMin. 5+ years of professional experience, ideally in strategic procurement, with strong exposure to the chemical industry and international environmentsDemonstrated ability to analyze data, solve complex problems and lead multifaceted procurement initiativesExcellent communication skills, with proven success in building global internal and external stakeholder relationshipsExperience across procurement processes including commodity management, supplier negotiations, supplier development and contract management (preferred)Fluency in English is required; business‑level German is a plusSAP experience is highly recommendedFamiliarity with modern digital procurement tools and sustainable procurement practicesArxada has world class offering in two distinct areas:Microbial Control Solutions (MCS) focuses on threats posed by microorganisms to people and planet through five distinct business lines including Professional Hygiene, Home & Personal Care, Wood Protection, Paints & Coatings and Material Protection.Nutrition, Care & Environmental (NCE), meanwhile, provides materials used to manufacture composites for electronics, aerospace and other markets, as well as vitamins and nutritional ingredients, chemicals and performance intermediates, and raw materials for a wide range of high-performance applications.Arxada is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a qualified individual with disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.ES03