Chemical Category Manager
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 22, 2026. First seen by Alion on Jun 15, 2026. Knowlton Development Corporation scores B on the Alion truth index.
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.