Category Manager

LATICRETE International; Streamwood (IL); Remote; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Category Manager to lead sourcing strategies for innovative chemical products. In this remote role, you will manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and optimize costs while ensuring quality and reliability. This position offers the chance to work in a collaborative environment that values integrity and teamwork, with opportunities for professional growth and development. If you're passionate about making a difference in the construction industry and eager to tackle new challenges, this role is perfect for you.

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

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

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing strategies for private-label and contract-manufactured chemical products.
• Manage suppliers, negotiate agreements, and optimize costs.

Skills

Negotiation Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s in Chemistry

Bachelor’s in Supply Chain

Bachelor’s in Engineering

Bachelor’s 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?

At LATICRETE International, we aim to be a top ten construction chemical company that values family, diversity, collaboration, and invention. Family owned for three generations, operating in over 100 countries for more than 65 years. Recognized as one of Connecticut’s Top Family Owned Companies in 2017.

We make innovative products and strive to improve the lives of our employees, customers, partners, and communities. We seek passionate employees eager to make a difference. Join us and expand your horizons!

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401k, Tuition reimbursement
• Paid holidays, vacation, sick leave
• Flexible spending, Life Insurance, AD&D
• 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 managing suppliers, negotiating agreements, optimizing costs, and ensuring quality and supply reliability. Requires experience in contract manufacturing, supplier management, and market intelligence in construction chemicals sector.

Key Responsibilities

Manage Private-Label Vendors (40%)

• Develop sourcing strategies to improve costs, quality, and market share.
• Lead negotiations and cost-saving initiatives.
• Onboard new vendors and ensure compliance and standards.
• Analyze market trends and supply risks.

Manage Contract Manufacturers (40%)

• Identify and engage contract manufacturers, ensure quality and cost efficiency.
• Benchmark and consolidate manufacturers.
• Negotiate pricing and explore new manufacturers.
• Support international formulation implementation.

Sourcing & Supply Management (20%)

• Build supplier relationships, drive cost reductions.
• Track savings and KPIs.
• Support product development and operational improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in Chemistry, Supply Chain, Engineering, Business or related field.
• 5+ years in sourcing, procurement, or category management in chemicals preferred.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.

Additional Requirements

• Knowledge of chemical formulations and regulations.
• Experience with RFIs, RFQs, contract negotiations.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and travel 25-30%.

Physical & Travel Requirements

• Pre-employment physical, lift 50 lbs, push 25 lbs, stand/sit 50% each.

Remote position with required visits to Bethany, CT.