Who we are:

You know us. You just didn’t know it. WACKER is a global chemical manufacturer that prides itself on “Creating Tomorrow’s Solutions”. WACKER materials are so versatile and adaptable, they have virtually unlimited applications just about anywhere imaginable, making WACKER an integral part of daily life. Whether it’s protecting buildings from the elements, a tube of toothpaste, a cell phone, airbags, or cosmetics, people from all over the world come into contact each day with our products and achievements. We are looking for capable, innovative, and enthusiastic achievers to join our team and grow with us. We are currently seeking a Procurement Category Manager to be part of our team in Charleston, TN.

Position Responsibilities:

This position is responsible to provide functional leadership for procurement practices and to facilitate continuous improvement; Manage the successful partnership between Wacker's internal customers and suppliers to achieve the lowest total cost of ownership; Lead and facilitate the coordination with other departments with the timely procurement and delivery of key materials and services; Coordinate timely preparation for Procurement Monthly Reports, KPI's, forecasts, audits, supplier complaints/claims/evaluations and other reporting as necessary; Manage relationship with providers for various construction services; Plan and conduct timely tenders in alignment with Category Manager II with a focus on synergies between Wacker sites; and Support assigned categories including Industrial Machinery, Piping Material, Gaskets and Machine Elements.

• Conducts business tenders
• Lead joint meetings with stakeholders, to review requirements, specifications, new or existing sources of supply, forecasts, recommendations for reduced procurement spend
• Lead role in developing and implementing negotiation strategies that satisfy the objectives of Wacker Sites
• Negotiates and drafts contracts and contract amendments
• Research and understand the market conditions, supplier performance and economic forecasts.
• Keep Business informed regarding economic conditions, market conditions, lead times and shifts in pricing patterns
• Performs tactical tasks in SAP
• Takes part in strategy preparation and cost reduction initiatives
• Schedules periodic reviews, supplier visits, attends industry specific events

Position Requirements:

• A bachelors degree is required
• 5+ years of experience in procurement is required
• Must be willing to travel 10-20%
• Excellent persuasive and presentation skills
• Strong analytical, financial and research capabilities
• Prior leadership role in contract management, RFQ bid process, writing SOW documents, contract law
• Excellent written and verbal skills; ability to communicate with all levels of management internally and external to WACKER.
• Good understanding of negotiation strategies, and risk management.
• Excellent and proven negotiation skills; ability to read, understand, and write legally binding contracts
• Ability to work within a global matrix organization

Additional Requirements:

• Previous experience procuring corporate and professional services preferred.
• Previous experience in procuring contractor and site services such preferred. 
• Proficiency with SAP & Microsoft Office applications and the ability learn additional IT analytical programs

• Compensation and Incentive plans
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance effective day 1
• Paid Time Off in addition to personal days and holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Wellbeing fund
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements
• 401(k) with company match
• Education Assistance Program
• Career development and advancement opportunities
• Support for Community Involvement