Chemical Category Manager

kdc/one, Innovation Lab; Saddle Brook (NJ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

KDC/One, Innovation Lab is searching for a Category Manager to support the chemical category. You will define and execute strategies for supplier management, lead sourcing initiatives, and monitor market trends to drive business objectives.

The ideal candidate should have 8–12 years of experience in procurement or category management, preferably in chemical industries, and possess strong negotiation and analytical skills. Join our diverse team and contribute to our commitment to innovation and excellence.

Qualifications

• 8–12 years of experience in direct procurement or category management.
• Experience in chemical categories like actives and surfactants.
• Background in pharmaceutical or beauty industry preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies for chemical categories.
• Lead sourcing initiatives and manage supplier relationships.
• Analyze market data to support decision-making.
• Ensure compliance and manage supply risks.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Negotiation

Analytical skills

Stakeholder influence

Supplier relationship management

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business or related field

Job description

KDC is a network of best‑in‑class custom formulators and manufacturers of color cosmetics, skincare, haircare, bath & body, fragrance, deodorant, home, health, industrial, and auto care products. KDC delivers high‑touch innovation, operational excellence, and speed to market to well‑known and emerging beauty, personal, and specialty companies from coast to coast. KDC has its head office in Longueuil, Québec. In addition, KDC has 10 operating facilities located throughout North America. Altogether, the company employs nearly 4,800 talented and dedicated employees in North America.

Position Summary

The Category Manager for Chemical category is responsible for defining and executing category strategies across key chemical segments (e.g., actives, surfactants, alcohols, extracts etc.), driving cost optimization, supply resilience, and long‑term value creation. This role combines strategic leadership with strong analytical and commercial capabilities, ensuring alignment with business priorities while managing supplier partnerships and risk across assigned categories. The Category Manager leads end‑to‑end sourcing initiatives, leverages data‑driven insights, and collaborates cross‑functionally to deliver sustainable results and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Category Strategy & Management

• Develop and implement chemical category strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Manage full category lifecycle including supplier segmentation and risk mitigation.
• Identify and execute value creation opportunities.
• Monitor market trends and adapt strategies proactively.

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Lead complex sourcing initiatives (RFx).
• Negotiate commercial agreements including pricing and terms.
• Manage supplier relationships and performance.
• Drive supplier innovation and continuous improvement.

Data, Reporting & Analytics

• Analyze spending, market intelligence, and supplier performance data to support decision‑making.
• Develop category dashboards and KPIs to track performance against targets.
• Leverage data insights to identify trends, risks, and optimization opportunities.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of category and supplier data.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date data in procurement trackers to support financial reporting and ensure alignment with Finance requirements.

Site Support

• Act as the primary escalation point for supply issues related to managed suppliers, ensuring timely resolution and minimal operational disruption.
• Support sites in local negotiations, providing guidance and alignment with category strategies and commercial frameworks.
• Collaborate with local teams to ensure adherence to preferred suppliers and sourcing strategies while addressing site‑specific needs.
• Provide expertise and support on supply continuity, risk mitigation, and alternative sourcing when required.

Stakeholder Management

• Partner with cross‑functional teams.
• Act as procurement lead for assigned categories.
• Influence stakeholders and drive adoption.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with policies and contracts.
• Manage supply risk and contingency plans.
• Support audit requirements.

Key Competencies

• Strong strategic thinking and category management expertise.
• Advanced negotiation and commercial acumen.
• Strong analytical and data‑driven decision‑making skills.
• Stakeholder influence and leadership across functions.
• Supplier relationship management and partnership mindset.
• Self‑driven; leads and influences without authority.
• Problem‑solving and continuous improvement orientation.
• Ability to balance strategic initiatives with operational priorities.

Preferred Experience

8–12 years of experience in direct procurement or category management, preferably in chemical categories such as actives, surfactants, alcohols, and extracts etc. A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field is required. Experience in pharmaceutical, personal care, home care, beauty industry, or chemical manufacturing environment is strongly preferred. Experience in co‑manufacturing and decentralized organizations is an asset.

KDC-ONE is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, gender, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. I understand that employment with KDC‑ONE Company is at-will, meaning that I or KDC‑ONE Company may terminate my employment at any time, or for any reason consistent with applicable state or federal law. I understand that KDC‑One requires the successful completion of a drug and/or alcohol test as a condition of employment.