Senior Category Manager

Solenis is a leading global provider of water and hygiene solutions. The company’s product portfolio includes a broad array of water treatment chemistries, process aids, functional additives, cleaners, disinfectants, and state-of-the-art monitoring, control and delivery systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets, minimize environmental impact, and create cleaner and safer environments. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, the company has 78 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe and employs a team of over ~23000 professionals in >160 countries across six continents. Solenis is a 2025 Best Managed Company Gold Standard honoree.

For additional information about Solenis, please visit www.solenis.com or follow us on social media.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Category Manager to own and lead assigned chemical categories end-to-end. This is a highly strategic role responsible for driving cost transparency, supplier performance, risk mitigation, and long-term value across a complex and evolving supply landscape.

As the category subject matter expert, you will partner closely with cross-functional stakeholders and the global Procurement team to develop innovative sourcing strategies, optimize the portfolio, and ensure supply resilience.

Responsibilities:

• Own assigned chemical categories end-to-end, developing deep expertise in market drivers and industry dynamics.
• Develop and maintain cost models and forecasts to support data-driven decision-making and price transparency.
• Analyze spend data to identify cost savings, cash flow improvements, and portfolio optimization opportunities.
• Create and execute strategic procurement plans that address industry complexity, manage risk, and deliver sustainable value.
• Build, manage, and optimize a preferred supplier network across multiple categories.
• Lead supplier sourcing initiatives including RFPs, negotiations, award optimization, and contract execution.
• Negotiate commercial agreements and long-term contracts.
• Ensure contract compliance related to pricing, payment terms, volume commitments, rebates, and performance metrics.
• Partner with global Procurement to align sourcing strategies and leverage scale.
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with Environmental, Health & Safety requirements and Responsible Care programs.
• Oversee complex projects while delivering timely, high-quality outcomes.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.

What You’ll Bring

• 7+ years of sourcing experience or equivalent technical experience (Product Management, R&D, Process Technology, or Production experience preferred)
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or related field (MBA or Master’s degree preferred)
• Experience with water treatment polymers or chemical commodities and a strong understanding of polymer chemistry preferred
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment with changing priorities
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and drive informed decisions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, both technical and professional
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to influence stakeholders and drive adoption of new processes and ways of working
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and project management capabilities
• Highly organized, action-oriented, and results driven
• Collaborative team player able to work effectively in a geographically distributed organization
• Knowledge of contract and pricing terms and conditions
• Working knowledge of SAP preferred
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint, and Word (including pivot tables, formulas, and data analysis tools)
• Fluency in English required; additional languages a plus

This will be a remote opportunity with up to 30% travel. #LI-remote

We understand that candidates will not meet every single desired qualification.  If your experience looks a little different from what we’ve identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we’d love to learn more about you.

At Solenis, we understand that our greatest asset is our people. That is why we offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits which include medical, dental, vision & 401K, and numerous opportunities for professional growth and development. So, if you are interested in working for a world-class company and enjoy solving complex challenges, whether in the lab or the field, consider joining our team.

 

Solenis is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer, including Minorities / Women/ Veterans / Disabled.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

 

Should you require assistance in applying to this opportunity, please reach out to Solenis Talent Acquisition at [email protected]

The expected compensation range for this position is between $105,600.00 and $176,000.00 plus discretionary bonuses. The exact compensation may vary based on your skills, experience and other factors permitted by law.