Strategic Category Manager – Chemicals & Packaging

Stepan Company; Northbrook (IL); On-site; USD 77,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

Stepan Company in Northbrook, IL is seeking a Category Manager to develop and implement indirect procurement strategies across chemical, packaging and service categories, driving value for the business. You will manage the end-to-end sourcing cycle, lead supplier selection, contract negotiation and RFI/RFP processes, and partner with Corporate Leadership and internal stakeholders.

Reporting to the Senior Category Manager II, this role sits at our Northbrook headquarters and emphasizes

Qualifications

• Exposure to category management, procurement, sourcing, or supply chain activities through education, internships, projects, or professional experience.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills with attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze costs, identify savings opportunities, and support financial objectives through academic, project, internship, or professional experiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis and advanced functionality; experience with SAP ERP or similar enterprise systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute commercial go-to-market strategies for chemical, packaging and service categories as assigned by the Senior Manager, and to deliver best in class sourcing value.
• Manage the procurement process, from strategic sourcing to contracting, ensuring detailed execution aligned with category strategic vision.
• Oversee supplier selection and management whlle maintaining compliance with procurement policies including safety and environmental sustainability.
• Partner with Corporate Leadership and internal stakeholders across the organization to develop sourcing strategies for our US stakeholders and manufacturing locations that provide the best overall value to the business and align with company objectives, including helping to define requirements and deliver procurement solutions.
• Develop a deep understanding of the overall market and Stepan supply base.
• Continually monitor and analyze purchases to optimize sourcing strategies for maximum value.
• Lead the process of researching markets, identifying and qualifying suppliers, bidding, negotiating, and developing contracts.
• Work with legal to finalize contracts meeting industry regulation and legal requirements.
• Manage supplier performance across cost, quality, service, delivery and invoice resolution
• Lead RFI/RFPs, supplier evaluation and selection, and risk-aligned contract execution.
• Negotiate pricing, commercial terms and service levels to optimize total cost of ownership.
• Monitor category and supplier performance, take corrective action and drive improvement.
• Analyze industry trends, price drivers and supply conditions to guide sourcing decisions.
• Achieve year-over-year value creation including but not limited to cost savings, cost avoidance, rebates and discounts, and optimization of payment terms and inventory.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with vendors, fostering partnerships that align with the company's values and quality standards.
• Monitor supplier performance and holds regular business performance reviews.
• Lead improvement actions as appropriate.

Skills

Category management exposure

Procurement

Sourcing

Supply chain

Financial analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

SAP ERP

Job description

Stepan Company in Northbrook, IL is seeking a Category Manager to develop and implement indirect procurement strategies across chemical, packaging and service categories, driving value for the business. You will manage the end-to-end sourcing cycle, lead supplier selection, contract negotiation and RFI/RFP processes, and partner with Corporate Leadership and internal stakeholders.

Reporting to the Senior Category Manager II, this role sits at our Northbrook headquarters and emphasizes