Role OverviewThis role develops and executes procurement strategies that drive innovation, ensures supply continuity, optimizes cost, and strengthens supplier stewardship across Balchem’s direct spend categories in the U.S. and Europe. The Category Manager defines sourcing strategies, manages stakeholder alignment, and delivers total cost of ownership improvements through market insight, risk management, and disciplined execution.
What You Will Do
Lead the development and execution of procurement strategies with cross-functional teams, build stakeholder alignment, provide market intelligence, and manage RFIs/RFPs, contracts, SLAs, and related strategic sourcing activities.
Why It Might Be a Fit
The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of direct category management, excellent communication and leadership skills, and the ability to influence in a highly matrixed environment.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Finance, Operations, Business Management, Engineering, or a related field
- 5+ years of procurement experience and at least 3 years of project management experience
- Preferred: MBA and/or CPM certification
- Strong understanding of direct category management; food ingredients or chemicals industry experience preferred
- Excellent communication, leadership, negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to influence in a highly matrixed environment and clearly communicate Procurement strategy
- Proven track record in partnering with senior leadership and cross-functional teams
- Demonstrated ability to analyze data, model business scenarios, and identify measurable value opportunities
- Working knowledge of contracts, sourcing processes, and continuous improvement principles
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; advanced Excel skills preferred
- Ability to travel 10–30% as needed
Benefits
- competitive salary and benefits package
]]>