Ascend Performance Materials
CategoryManager
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optimal for Senior candidates.
“Category Manager at Ascend Performance Materials. Skills: Category management, Sourcing strategy, Supplier management. Develop and execute sourcing strategies. Define sourcing approaches”
What You'll Achieve.
Deliver year-over-year cost, cash flow, and supply reliability improvements; Develop and execute multi-year category strategies; Strengthen supplier performance and partnerships; Build actionable market intelligence; Ensure supply continuity
Industry & Context.
Analytical and financial acumen; Sound judgment and risk management capability
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field, 7+ years of experience in procurement, supply chain, sales, marketing, or engineering supporting manufacturing, Knowledge of sourcing processes, contracts, and procurement systems, Strategic category management capability, Analytical and financial acumen, Process discipline and continuous improvement mindset, Effective communication and influencing skills, Ability to build cross-functional partnerships, Sound judgment and risk management capability
What You'll Do.
Develop and execute sourcing strategies
Define sourcing approaches
Lead supplier selection
Monitor market dynamics
Translate insights into actions
Support sustainability initiatives
Align sourcing with forecasts
Collaborate with procurement team
Work across Business Line
Track category performance
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
Partner with Business Line and Planning; Collaborate with broader procurement team; Work across Business Line, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance, and Legal; Reports to Director – Direct Materials Procurement; Partners cross-functionally with Business, Planning, Procurement Operations, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, Finance, and Legal; Interfaces externally with key suppliers
Communication Scope
Effective communication and influencing skills across functions and levels
Full Job Description
**POSITION OVERVIEW** Ascend Performance Materials is a global leader in high-performance chemicals, fibers and plastics, committed to enhancing quality of life through innovation. With fully integrated manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia, we develop essential solutions that drive safer vehicles, cleaner energy, advanced medical devices, and durable consumer goods. Guided by a strong focus on safety, sustainability, and customer success, we operate responsibly while delivering value through cutting-edge technologies and industry expertise. Join our team and be part of a collaborative environment where your work drives meaningful global impact. The Category Manager – Direct Materials leads sourcing strategy and execution for critical raw material categories, including Nylon Additives, Packaging, and Cylinder Gases. This role owns supplier strategy, commercial negotiations, and category performance while partnering closely across the organization to ensure reliable supply across manufacturing sites. **TARGETED OUTCOMES** * Deliver year-over-year cost, cash flow, and supply reliability improvements. * Develop and execute multi-year category strategies aligned to business needs. * Strengthen supplier performance and partnerships. * Build actionable market intelligence to inform sourcing decisions. * Ensure supply continuity through proactive risk management. **RESPONSIBILITIES** **Category Strategy & Execution** * Develop and execute multi-year sourcing strategies for assigned categories. * Define sourcing approaches (contracts, spot, dual sourcing) aligned to market conditions and demand. * Lead supplier selection, qualification, and long-term partnership development. **Commercial & Supplier Management** * Lead negotiations and manage contracts to optimize cost, service, and risk. * Serve as the primary commercial interface with strategic suppliers. * Establish and drive supplier performance metrics and improvement actions. **Market Intellig
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