Category Manager

LATICRETE International; California (MO); Remote; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

LATICRETE International is seeking a Category Manager to lead sourcing strategies for private-label and contract-manufactured products. The ideal candidate will manage supplier relationships, negotiate agreements, and ensure product quality, with 5+ years in sourcing or procurement preferred. This full-time position offers competitive benefits with flexibility for remote work, requiring occasional travel to Bethany, CT.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision

401k, Tuition reimbursement

Paid holidays, vacation, sick leave

Flexible spending, Life Insurance

Plant shutdown between Christmas and New Year’s

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field required.
• 5+ years of experience in sourcing, procurement, or category management.
• Strong negotiation and market analysis skills needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing strategies for private-label and contract-manufactured chemical products.
• Manage vendor relationships and ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Support cross-functional teams and conduct spend analysis.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier Management

Market Analysis

Communication

Project Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business

Job description

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Job Description:

Are you looking for a new challenge? Passionate about innovation? Want to work for a company that values integrity, teamwork and loyalty?

Company Overview:

At LATICRETE International, we strive to be a top ten construction chemical company that values family, diversity, collaboration, and invention. With over 65 years in business, family-owned for three generations, and presence in 100 countries, we are recognized as one of Connecticut’s Top Family Owned Companies. We focus on creating innovative products and connecting with our community, employees, and partners.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401k, Tuition reimbursement
• Paid holidays, vacation, sick leave
• Flexible spending, Life Insurance, AD&D, Supplemental Insurance
• Plant shutdown between Christmas and New Year’s

Position Summary:

This role involves leading sourcing strategies for private-label and contract-manufactured chemical products in the USA and internationally. Responsibilities include aligning sourcing with product development, managing contract manufacturers, negotiating agreements, and ensuring product quality and supply reliability. The ideal candidate has a background in contract manufacturing and supplier management within the construction chemicals sector.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Manage Private-Label Vendors (40%):
   • Develop and execute sourcing strategies to improve cost, quality, and supply reliability.
   • Lead negotiations and cost-saving initiatives.
   • Onboard new vendors and ensure compliance with standards.
   • Analyze market trends and supply risks.
2. Manage Chemical Contract Manufacturers (40%):
   • Identify and engage suitable contract manufacturers, maintain quality standards.
   • Benchmark and optimize the supply base.
   • Negotiate pricing and explore new manufacturing partners.
   • Support international formulation implementation.
3. General Sourcing & Supply Management (20%):
   • Build strategic supplier relationships.
   • Drive cost reduction and report on KPIs.
   • Support cross-functional teams and conduct spend analysis.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field.
• 5+ years in sourcing, procurement, or category management, preferably in chemicals or construction industry.
• Strong negotiation, supplier management, and market analysis skills.
• Experience with global suppliers, contract negotiations, and regulatory compliance.
• Excellent communication and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently.

Travel & Physical Requirements:

• Travel 25-30%.
• Must pass pre-employment physical, lift 50 lbs, push/pull 25 lbs, and alternate between sitting and standing.

Additional Details:

• Position can be remote, with requirement to visit Bethany, CT.
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