Our client is an internationally operating company in the chemical industry, supplying products and solutions to a broad range of markets. The organisation combines operational excellence with a strong focus on sustainability, safety and continuous improvement. With an international manufacturing footprint and a highly skilled workforce, the company operates in a complex and dynamic market environment.
The Dutch organisation combines manufacturing with a range of business functions and operates within a broader international network. Cross-functional collaboration is key, with teams working across countries, disciplines and markets. Within this environment, Procurement has a significant impact on both operational continuity and commercial performance.
Main goal of the position
Lead strategic sourcing for chemical categories across Europe. Through in-depth analysis of chemical and energy markets, decisive negotiations and effective team leadership, you secure competitive terms and continuity of supply while delivering direct impact on business performance.
The position
With raw materials accounting for over 50% of the company’s P&L, your commercial decisions have a direct impact on business performance. You develop and execute sourcing strategies for chemical categories across Europe and lead complex, high-value negotiations with key suppliers. A thorough understanding of energy markets is essential, as energy is a major cost driver and directly affects the prices of the products you source. By analysing feedstocks, energy costs, cost structures, market indices and price movements, you challenge supplier pricing and define effective negotiation strategies.
You manage strategic supplier relationships while balancing commercial outcomes, security of supply and contractual risk. At the same time, you lead and coach an international team of five experienced Senior Buyers. As a senior representative of Procurement, you work closely with Operations, Finance, Supply Chain, Commercial and Legal and engage with senior supplier executives.
The profile
- extensive experience in strategic procurement, sourcing or category management;
- candidates who have moved from Procurement into Operations, Finance or another business leadership role are equally relevant, provided they bring substantial previous procurement experience and wish to return to the function;
- strong experience within chemicals, petrochemicals or a closely related process industry;
- practical understanding of petrochemical value chains, raw materials, cost drivers and index-based pricing;
- proven experience negotiating complex, high-value and long-term commercial contracts;
- strong analytical and commercial capabilities, including cost modelling and market analysis;
- experience managing strategic supplier relationships and supply risks;
- proven leadership experience with senior procurement professionals, preferably across locations;
- fluent in English; Dutch is highly appreciated;
- 4 days on site presence is required in this role.
Selection process
There will be several interview rounds with representatives from Lodiers & Partners (week 43 - week 46) and with our client (week 48). A personality questionnaire (Lumina) is part of this selection process.
Contact
For more information or to submit your application, please contact Margreet van Haasteren at 06 –23 90 58 91 or via e-mail: vanhaasteren@lodiersenpartners.nl.
