Job Description
The Commodity & Chemical Category Manager is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies for chemical and commodity inputs critical to ND Paper\'s mill operations. This role drives supplier performance, negotiates cost efficiencies, ensures supply continuity, and supports the company’s cost, quality, and sustainability objectives. The ideal candidate brings strong commercial acumen, deep industry knowledge in pulp and paper chemical markets, and cross-functional leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management
Develop and lead end-to-end sourcing strategies for key commodity and chemical categories (e.g., caustic soda, starches, polymers, colorants, process chemicals).
Perform total cost of ownership (TCO) analyses and market intelligence reviews to inform procurement decisions.
Identify and qualify suppliers aligned with ND Paper’s mill production needs and environmental compliance standards.
Supplier Relationship & Performance Management
Manage strategic supplier relationships, including performance reviews, corrective actions, and innovation partnerships.
Negotiate long-term agreements and mitigate supply risk through multi-sourcing or buffer strategies.
Collaborate with Quality, Technical, and EHS teams to ensure supplier compliance with ND Paper specifications and safety protocols.
Operational Support
Partner with mill-based operations, production planning, and logistics to ensure seamless inbound supply of chemicals and raw materials.
Monitor usage trends, coordinate with inventory teams, and proactively address supply-demand imbalances.
Work closely with finance and accounting to ensure accurate price tracking and budget forecasting.
Continuous Improvement & Cost Savings
Drive year-over-year savings targets through competitive bidding, value engineering, or alternate formulations.
Lead or support cross-functional initiatives to improve procurement operations, sustainability, or product performance.
Stay ahead of market trends in pulp & paper and chemical supply chains, including regulatory impacts (e.g., REACH, TSCA, EPA rules).
Requirements
Required:
Bachelor\'s degree in Supply Chain, Chemistry, Engineering, or related field.
5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management, preferably in chemicals, pulp & paper, or heavy manufacturing.
Strong negotiation, analytical, and project management skills.
Proficient in ERP/MRP systems (SAP preferred) and Excel-based modeling.
Must be willing to travel up to 25%
Proficiency in Mandarin
Preferred:
Experience managing categories exceeding $20M in annual spend.
Technical understanding of industrial chemicals and how they impact paper manufacturing.
Knowledge of sustainability regulations and supplier risk frameworks.
Key Competencies:
Influence Without Authority – Drives change and alignment across mills and corporate without formal control.
Negotiation & Persuasion – Confidently navigates pricing, service terms, and supplier accountability.
Analytical Thinking – Assesses options with rigor; makes decisions backed by data.
Curiosity & Industry Insight – Stays informed on chemical trends, market shifts, and innovation.
Resilience – Maintains performance under pressure, especially during supply chain disruptions.
Ethics & Integrity – Prioritizes compliance, sustainability, and responsible sourcing practices.
What we offer
ND Paper Benefits
We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as voluntary benefits such as accident insurance, hospital indemnity, and critical illness for you and your family.
Financial protection benefits, including life insurance, disability insurance, and business travel accident insurance.
Tax advantaged accounts such as Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Paid holidays, personal days, and vacation days to support work-life balance.
A 401K retirement plan with a company match and annual fixed contribution.
Wellness programs with incentives and an on-site clinic available at our Rumford and Biron location.
Enjoy competitive salaries, comprehensive health benefits, and paid time off. Discover more about our benefits and how we support our team by visiting 2025 Benefits. Come be a part of our team and grow with us!
Apply
Please submit your resume, and salary requirements to https://us.ndpaper.com/careers
No unsolicited resumes - ND Paper does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Any unsolicited resume you submit to us will immediately become the property of ND Paper. If you would like to become a recruiter for ND Paper, please contact us and we will agree in writing to terms and the specific job roles for which you are authorized to recruit.
Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Retirement Plan (401k, Pension)
- Paid Time Off
Salary
The salary range for this position is under 25.000
Contact person
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