Oleo-Chemical Category Buyer - Surfactants

About Verdant Specialty Solutions

Verdant Specialty Solutions is a global specialty chemical company. Its customers include world-leading personal care and home care brands, energy solutions providers, and industrial companies. Verdant’s vision is to be the go-to provider of batch specialty surfactant-based chemistry for applications in the consumer and industrial markets. Based in Houston, the company has nine locations in the US and Europe. Verdant’s international team of 280 employees are committed to safety, quality, and supply reliability.

Why Join Verdant?

Opportunities for growth Verdant is a fast-growing company that has the spirit of a small business. The company was formed in May 2021, so every employee plays an important role in culture and performance. It offers a dynamic ‘start up’ atmosphere with opportunities for professional growth.

Committed to safety Despite having the spirit of a small business, Verdant rivals larger companies in its commitment to safety. Verdant prides itself on industry-leading environmental, safety, health and quality standards. At Verdant, there is no priority higher than safety.

About the position We are looking for a motivated Oleo-Chemical Category Buyer who will be responsible for managing the procurement of oleo-chemicals and related substances for surfactant production on a global scale. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of contracts, indexes, supply chain dynamics, key performance indicators (KPIs), supplier management, and secondary sourcing processes within the chemical industry, coupled with excellent communication skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute procurement strategies for the oleo-chemicals category, ensuring alignment with company objectives and cost-saving targets on a global scale.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers to secure favorable terms and conditions, including pricing, delivery schedules, and quality standards.
• Manage supplier relationships, including conducting regular performance evaluations, addressing issues, and fostering collaboration for continuous improvement.
• Implement secondary sourcing initiatives, identifying alternative suppliers and obtaining necessary approvals to ensure supply chain resilience and mitigate risks.
• Monitor market trends, commodity indexes, and supplier performance to identify opportunities for cost optimization and risk mitigation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including production, R&D, and quality assurance teams, to ensure timely and reliable supply of raw materials.
• Track and analyze KPIs related to procurement performance, such as cost savings, on-time delivery, and supplier reliability, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Stay informed about regulatory requirements and industry standards affecting the oleo-chemicals category, ensuring compliance in procurement practices.

Location: This position is in either Illinois, Houston, Texas, or Halifax, UK.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain Management, Chemistry, or related field.
• Proven experience in procurement or purchasing within the chemical industry, with specific knowledge of oleo-chemicals preferred.
• Familiarity with contract negotiation, supplier management, secondary sourcing, and procurement best practices.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret market data and commodity indexes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented approach with a focus on accuracy and precision in procurement processes.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with procurement software or ERP systems

Benefits

• Competitive and comprehensive health, dental and vision benefits through Cigna.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account with employer contribution and yearly roll over (cannot be combined with FSA)
• 401(k) with competitive company match
• Health advocacy and services
• Company paid life insurance and disability insurance
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Other company paid programs including identity theft resolution, travel assistance, will preparation, discounts on gym membership and equipment, massage therapy, nutrition programs and smoking cessation.

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