Global Category Manager - Indirect Procurement

Lubrizol IMEA; Wickliffe (OH); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus plans

401(k) match

Medical, dental & vision coverage

Health Savings Account

Paid holidays & vacation

Flexible work environment

Learning & development

Career growth

Inclusive culture

Job summary

Lubrizol Corporation is seeking a Global Category Manager – Indirect Procurement to lead our worldwide sourcing strategy and drive value across a diverse supplier base. You will partner with cross‑functional teams to achieve cost savings, quality, and innovation, while navigating regulatory and safety standards.

The role requires 8+ years in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and a track record in global category management within chemical or manufacturing environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain.
• Experience developing and implementing global sourcing or category management strategies.
• Strong negotiation, contracting, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across global, cross‑functional teams.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational capabilities.
• Knowledge of global regulatory, legal, tax, and import/export requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and digital business systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage a global portfolio of indirect procurement categories within a complex, matrixed organization.
• Develop and execute multi‑year category strategies focused on total cost of ownership, quality, service, and innovation.
• Source, evaluate, and onboard global suppliers while leading contract negotiations and establishing master service agreements.
• Partner with cross‑functional stakeholders to align procurement strategies with broader business objectives.
• Drive supplier performance management, continuous improvement, and supplier‑enabled innovation initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, diversification, and risk mitigation across global markets.
• Lead pricing strategies and negotiations to achieve cost savings and productivity targets.
• Leverage market intelligence and industry best practices to strengthen competitive positioning.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, regulatory requirements, and health, safety, environment, and security standards.
• Monitor and report category performance, including cost trends, risks, and value delivery.

Skills

Negotiation

Contracting

Supplier relationships

Cross-functional collaboration

Analytical thinking

English communication

MS Office

Influence

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business, or related field

Tools

SAP

Power BI

Job description

Company: Lubrizol Corporation

Lubrizol is a global leader in specialty chemistry solutions that enhance everyday life through science, sustainability, and an inclusive culture. As part of our team, you’ll make a real impact on your career, community, and the world.

Location: Wickliffe, OH or Brecksville, OH (planned transition to Wickliffe, OH in 2028) or Deer Park, TX

Job type: Full‑time. Collaborate in person 4 days each week with 1 flexible remote day.

How You’ll Make An Impact

As a Global Category Manager – Indirect Procurement, you’ll lead our global sourcing strategy, drive value across a diverse portfolio of suppliers, services, and equipment, partner with cross‑functional teams, and influence business performance, enabling sustainable growth and operational excellence on a global scale.

In This Role, You Will

• Manage a global portfolio of indirect procurement categories within a complex, matrixed organization.
• Develop and execute multi‑year category strategies focused on total cost of ownership, quality, service, and innovation.
• Source, evaluate, and onboard global suppliers while leading contract negotiations and establishing master service agreements.
• Partner with cross‑functional stakeholders to align procurement strategies with broader business objectives.
• Drive supplier performance management, continuous improvement, and supplier‑enabled innovation initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, diversification, and risk mitigation across global markets.
• Lead pricing strategies and negotiations to achieve cost savings and productivity targets.
• Leverage market intelligence and industry best practices to strengthen competitive positioning.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, regulatory requirements, and health, safety, environment, and security standards.
• Monitor and report category performance, including cost trends, risks, and value delivery.

Required Qualifications That Enable Your Success

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain, preferably within the chemical or manufacturing industry.
• Proven experience developing and implementing global sourcing or category management strategies.
• Strong negotiation, contracting, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across global, cross‑functional teams.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational capabilities.
• Knowledge of global regulatory, legal, tax, and import/export requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools and digital business systems.

Preferred Qualifications That Drive You Forward

• Advanced degree such as an MBA or master’s in a related discipline.
• Experience with enterprise resource planning systems such as SAP and business intelligence tools like Power BI.
• Background in data analytics and procurement performance reporting.
• Knowledge of company products, manufacturing processes, and global asset footprint.
• Formal training in strategy development and execution.

Your Work Environment

We’re committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment. Depending on your role, your work environment may include:

• Standing, walking, or operating equipment for extended periods.
• Working in a lab or manufacturing setting with appropriate PPE provided.
• Use of computers and digital tools in an office or hybrid environment.
• Occasional lifting or movement of materials.
• Adherence to rigorous safety protocols and ergonomic standards.

Benefits That Empower You

• Competitive salary with performance‑based bonus plans.
• 401(k) match + Age‑Weighted Defined Contribution.
• Comprehensive medical, dental & vision coverage.
• Health Savings Account (HSA).
• Paid holidays, vacation, and parental leave.
• Flexible work environment.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Career and professional growth.
• Inclusive culture and vibrant community engagement.

Learn more at https://benefits.lubrizol.com/.

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