Are you ready to take your procurement career to the next level with a dynamic and innovative leader in the global composites industry? We are currently seeking a Category Manager – Raw Materials to join a high-performing procurement team based in Barcelona, playing a strategic role in shaping sourcing initiatives across EMEA.

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a global organization known for its strong culture of empowerment, integrity, and operational excellence, with a clear focus on safety, sustainability, and value creation.

About the Company

Our client is a global leader in high-performance materials used across key industries including building materials, transportation, corrosion-resistant composites, recreation, and wind energy. With manufacturing and operations in Europe, the US, Brazil, India, and China, this company offers a diverse and international working environment where employees are encouraged to innovate, collaborate, and make an impact.

The Role

As Category Manager – Raw Materials, you will be responsible for managing a key portfolio of raw materials, including packaging and associated inputs with an annual spend of approximately €20 million. Reporting to the EMEA Procurement Leader, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and execute sourcing strategies aligned with business goals.

This is a high-visibility role, essential to driving cost optimization and supply security in a highly competitive, fast-paced industry.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement

• Develop and implement sourcing strategies for raw materials in your portfolio.
• Conduct supplier research and evaluation to ensure quality, cost, and delivery excellence.
• Analyze historical data to identify areas for improvement in procurement efficiency and spend.

Supplier Management

• Lead negotiations and secure favorable commercial terms.
• Establish robust supplier contracts and performance monitoring frameworks.
• Conduct supplier reviews using KPIs and support resolution of claims or disputes.
• Ensure all suppliers meet SHE (Safety, Health & Environmental) and company-specific standards.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure timely and accurate purchase order management in SAP.
• Maintain procurement databases and tender calendars.
• Provide procurement insights and reporting to the EMEA Procurement Leader.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full adherence to legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements.
• Identify procurement risks and develop mitigation strategies.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Economics, Chemistry, or Engineering.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience as a Category Manager in the chemical industry, focusing on raw materials, commodities, and packaging.
• Fluency in English is essential; Spanish is a plus.
• Strong background in international/multicultural environments.
• Proven skills in contract management, tender execution, negotiations, and data analysis.
• Proficient in SAP, Excel, PowerPoint, and other procurement tools.
• Solid understanding of supply chain management and direct procurement practices.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Strong communicator with excellent negotiation and influencing skills.
• Analytical and financially savvy, with a strategic mindset.
• Results-driven, adaptable, and collaborative.
• Able to work effectively across functions and cultures.
• Proactive and resourceful with a passion for continuous improvement.

If you’re ready to join a global leader and make a tangible impact in a strategic procurement role, we’d love to hear from you.