Sr Buyer - Chemicals

Position Overview:

This role is pivotal in overseeing a commodities portfolio that significantly contributes to operational efficiency and cost savings through the development and implementation of sourcing strategies. With an approximate annual spend of $50 million, the role focuses on driving value through supplier management, market analysis, and cost reduction strategies related to key industrial commodities.

Summary of Responsibilities:

The Senior Strategic Sourcing Specialist will be accountable for the procurement and contract management of bulk materials such as industrial chemicals, fuel sources, and utility-grade energy inputs. The role involves continuous market assessment, supplier evaluation, and cross-functional collaboration to identify opportunities for cost optimization and supply chain resiliency.

Key Commodities Covered:

• Industrial Chemicals: Collaborate with operations and engineering to monitor usage trends, analyze costs, oversee procurement execution, and support annual budget development.

• Natural Gas: Maintain facility-level usage tracking, align procurement with consumption patterns, and manage invoice reconciliation tied to actual use.

• Coal or Equivalent Fuel Sources: Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure uninterrupted supply of compliant material, aligning with plant performance and quality standards.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Serve as the main liaison for internal teams and external suppliers on commercial matters concerning assigned commodities.

• Lead negotiations on pricing, logistics, and contract terms with vendors.

• Develop, execute, and oversee long-term supply agreements.

• Guide day-to-day operations for commodity-related purchasing activities, including oversight of purchasing staff.

• Monitor supply plans and order fulfillment to ensure alignment with production schedules and inventory needs.

• Provide data and reporting support to Finance when necessary.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 7 years in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or vendor management.

• Strong preference for certifications such as C.P.M. or CPSM.

• Background in high-volume or continuous process industrial environments preferred.

• Demonstrated success in developing category strategies and managing large spend portfolios.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Deep understanding of contract law, purchasing regulations, and international trade terms (e.g., Incoterms).

• Advanced skills in Excel and data analysis; able to construct and interpret complex spreadsheets.

• Strategic thinking with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Skilled at navigating complex negotiations and building supplier relationships.

• Self-motivated and organized, with strong time management and prioritization capabilities.

• Ability to draft and manage comprehensive sourcing documents including RFQs, RFPs, and detailed contracts.