Strategic Category Manager – Indirect Procurement

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401K with Match

Profit Sharing

Paid Time Off

Short-Term Disability

Long-Term Disability

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Paid Parental Leave

Adoption Assistance

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Job summary

Stepan Company in Northbrook, IL seeks a Category Manager to develop and implement indirect procurement strategies, reporting to the Senior Category Manager II. Based at our headquarters, you will drive sourcing across chemical, packaging and service categories and lead RFI/RFP processes.

You will collaborate with legal and internal stakeholders to finalize contracts, monitor supplier performance, and achieve cost savings and value throughout the year.

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 experiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis; experience with SAP ERP or similar systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute commercial go-to-market strategies for chemical, packaging and service categories; deliver sourcing value.
• Manage procurement process from strategic sourcing to contracting; ensure alignment with category vision.
• Lead RFI/RFPs, supplier evaluation and contract negotiations; monitor supplier performance and drive improvements.

Skills

Category management

Procurement

Sourcing

Excel

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in economics, business, chemical engineering, supply chain management or related field

Tools

SAP ERP

Job description

Stepan Company in Northbrook, IL seeks a Category Manager to develop and implement indirect procurement strategies, reporting to the Senior Category Manager II. Based at our headquarters, you will drive sourcing across chemical, packaging and service categories and lead RFI/RFP processes.

You will collaborate with legal and internal stakeholders to finalize contracts, monitor supplier performance, and achieve cost savings and value throughout the year.