Category Manager

LATICRETE International; New Braunfels (TX); Remote; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Category Manager to lead sourcing strategies for private-label chemical products. This exciting role involves negotiating contracts, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring product quality. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, the company offers a dynamic work environment where your contributions will directly impact the business. If you are driven by results and eager to make a difference in the construction industry, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, Vision

401k

Tuition reimbursement

13 paid holidays

Flexible spending accounts

Life Insurance

Paid plant shutdown between Christmas and New Year’s

Qualifications

• 5+ years in sourcing, procurement, or category management in private-label chemical products.
• Knowledge of chemical formulations, production, and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies to improve costs and quality.
• Negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships.

Skills

Negotiation Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Project Management

Supplier 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

Join to apply for the Category Manager role at LATICRETE International

Job Description

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

At LATICRETE International, we aim to be a top ten construction chemical company that values family, diversity, collaboration, and invention. Family owned and operated for three generations, we have been in business for over 65 years and are present in 100 countries. In 2017, The Hartford Business Journal named us one of Connecticut’s Top Family Owned Companies.

We not only produce industry-leading products but also strive to engage with and improve the lives of our employees, customers, partners, and communities worldwide. We seek passionate employees eager to make a difference locally and globally. Join us and expand your horizons!

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401k, Tuition reimbursement
• 13 paid holidays plus vacation and sick leave
• Flexible spending accounts
• Life Insurance, AD&D, and supplemental insurance
• Paid plant shutdown between Christmas and New Year’s

Position Summary

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

Responsibilities

1. Manage Private-Label Vendors (40%)
   • Develop and execute sourcing strategies to improve costs, quality, and supply reliability.
   • Negotiate contracts and pricing with suppliers.
   • Onboard new vendors and ensure compliance with standards.
   • Analyze market trends and supply risks.
2. Manage Chemical Contract Manufacturers (40%)
   • Collaborate with R&D to select and engage contract manufacturers.
   • Benchmark and streamline the supply base.
   • Negotiate pricing and explore new manufacturers.
   • Support international formulation implementation.
3. General Sourcing & Supply Management (20%)
   • Maintain supplier relationships and drive cost savings.
   • Track KPIs and savings.
   • Support product development and operational efficiency.
   • Conduct spend analysis and support data-driven decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field.
• 5+ years in sourcing, procurement, or category management in private-label chemical products preferred.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of chemical formulations, production, and regulations.
• Experience with RFIs/RFQs, contract negotiations, and supplier management.
• Excellent communication and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.

Additional Requirements

• Travel up to 25-30%.
• Must pass pre-employment physical and lift/carry requirements.
• Position can be remote but requires travel to Bethany, CT.

Additional Details

• Seniority Level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Job Function: Marketing and Sales
• Industry: Wholesale Building Materials