Category Manager

LATICRETE International; City of Utica (NY); Remote; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the construction industry seeks a Category Manager to lead sourcing strategies for private-label and contract-manufactured chemical products. The role involves managing vendors, negotiating agreements, and ensuring product quality. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in supplier management and market intelligence. This position allows for remote work with travel requirements to the headquarters in Bethany, CT.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in sourcing, procurement, or category management in chemical manufacturing.
• Knowledge of chemical formulations and production regulations.

Responsibilities

• Manage private-label vendors and develop sourcing strategies.
• Negotiate pricing and manage contract manufacturers.
• Build strategic supplier relationships and drive cost-reduction initiatives.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier Management

Market Analysis

Communication

Project Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in 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?

Position Summary

This position is responsible for leading sourcing strategies for private-label (PFR- Purchase for Resale) and contract-manufactured chemical products in the USA and international business units within the construction industry. This role requires aligning sourcing strategies with product development, managing contract manufacturers, negotiating agreements, optimizing costs, and ensuring product quality and supply reliability. The ideal candidate has a strong background in contract manufacturing, supplier management, and market intelligence within the construction chemicals sector.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Manage private-label (PFR) Vendors (40%)
   • Develop and execute sourcing strategies to improve cost efficiency, product features, quality, and supply reliability, supporting PFR product portfolio growth.
   • Lead negotiations, pricing discussions, and cost-saving initiatives with suppliers.
   • Identify, evaluate, and onboard new PFR vendors.
   • Ensure compliance with regulations, specifications, and standards.
   • Analyze market trends and supply risks to optimize sourcing strategies.
2. Manage Chemical Contract Manufacturers (40%)
   • Work with R&D to identify and engage suitable contract manufacturers, ensuring quality and cost standards.
   • Benchmark and develop plans to streamline the supply base.
   • Negotiate pricing and explore new manufacturers for future needs.
   • Assist international units in implementing formulations overseas.
3. General Sourcing & Supply Management (20%)
   • Build and maintain strategic supplier relationships.
   • Drive cost-reduction initiatives and track savings.
   • Support cross-functional teams and conduct spend analysis.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field.
• 5+ years in sourcing, procurement, or category management, preferably in private-label chemical manufacturing.
• Strong negotiation, supplier management, and market analysis skills.
• Knowledge of chemical formulations, production, and regulations in construction.
• Excellent communication, project management, and ability to work independently.

Travel Requirement:

Must be able to travel 25-30%. The position can be remote but will require visits to Bethany, CT.

Physical Requirements:

• Must pass pre-employment physical.
• Lift at least 50 pounds, push/pull 25 pounds, stand 50%, sit 50% of the day.

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Marketing and Sales
• Industries: Wholesale Building Materials