Regional Category Manager - Direct Procurement

Title: Regional Category Manager - Direct Procurement

Location: Brecksville, OH, US, 44141-3247

Department: Procurement

Job Description:

Shape the Future with Us.

At Lubrizol, we’re bringing to life the chemistry behind clean water, efficient transportation, reliable infrastructure, critical medicines, and the products people rely on every day through science, sustainability, and a culture of inclusion.

As part of our global team, you’ll be empowered to make a real impact - on your career, your community, and the world around you.

Travel: 15-25% globally

Location: Brecksville, OH to start, and transitioning to Wickliffe, OH in 2028.

As Lubrizol approaches its centennial in 2028, our Wickliffe campus will become the unified home of Lubrizol’s global headquarters, integrating Lubrizol’s Brecksville site capabilities and employees to the Wickliffe campus. 

Job Type: Full-time. Collaborate in person 4 days each week, with 1 flexible remote day.

How You’ll Make an Impact

As a Regional Category Manager - Direct Procurement, you'll play a critical role in shaping the regional sourcing strategy for some of Lubrizol's most essential raw materials. From navigating dynamic global markets to building strategic supplier partnerships, you'll help ensure the reliable, cost-effective supply of materials that power business growth and manufacturing excellence around the world. Working at the intersection of procurement, operations, and commercial strategy, you'll influence key business decisions, drive value creation, and strengthen supply chain resilience in a highly visible and impactful role. You'll collaborate with a diverse group of passionate individuals to deliver sustainable solutions that advance mobility, improve wellbeing, and enhance modern life.

In this role, you will:

• Develop and execute regional category strategies for polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlor-alkali, and related feedstocks to support long-term business growth and operational success.
• Partner closely with leadership and cross-functional teams to align sourcing strategies with manufacturing requirements, customer commitments, and commercial objectives.
• Lead strategic supplier relationships and negotiations that drive cost competitiveness, supply assurance, innovation, and sustainable value creation.
• Monitor global market trends, feedstock economics, regulatory developments, and industry dynamics to identify opportunities and proactively manage risk.
• Build resilient supply strategies through contingency planning, supplier diversification, and business continuity initiatives.
• Champion supplier performance improvements across cost, quality, service, sustainability, and innovation.
• Provide market insights and procurement expertise that support informed decision-making and strengthen competitive advantage.
• Drive procurement excellence through category management best practices, continuous improvement initiatives, and strong governance standards.

Required Qualifications that Enable Your Success

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business, Finance, or a related discipline.
• 8+ years of experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, supply chain, commercial operations, or the chemical industry.
• Proven success developing and executing regional category strategies and delivering measurable business value.
• Strong experience leading complex negotiations and managing strategic supplier relationships.
• Excellent analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate market trends and business impacts.
• Demonstrated ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and senior leaders within a matrixed organization.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel approximately 15-25% globally to support supplier, plant, and business engagement activities.

Preferred Qualifications that Drive You Forward

• Experience in PVC, chlor-alkali, petrochemical, specialty chemical, or related feedstock markets.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) or other advanced degree.
• Knowledge of SAP, procurement analytics platforms, and strategic sourcing tools.
• Experience supporting manufacturing-intensive businesses and complex supply chains.
• Experience leading global sourcing initiatives and cross-regional supplier negotiations.

Your Work Environment

At Lubrizol, we’re committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where you can do your best work—whether in a lab, on the production floor, or in a hybrid office setting. Depending on your role, your work environment may include:

• Standing, walking, or operating equipment for extended periods
• Working in a lab or manufacturing setting with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) provided
• Use of computers and digital tools in an office or hybrid environment
• Occasional lifting or movement of materials
• Adherence to rigorous safety protocols and ergonomic standards

We continuously invest in our facilities and technologies to ensure they support your well-being, productivity, and growth. If you require reasonable accommodation, we are committed to working with you to ensure an inclusive and accessible experience.

Benefits that Empower You

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonus plans
• 401(k) match + Age-Weighted Defined Contribution
• Comprehensive medical, dental & vision coverage
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid holidays, vacation, and parental leave
• Flexible work environment
• Learning and development opportunities
• Career and professional growth
• Inclusive culture and vibrant community engagement

Lubrizol: Imagined for Life. Enabled by Science. ™ Delivered by You.

For nearly 100 years, The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, has been at the forefront of innovation to enhance everyday life, advance mobility, and make the modern world work better. Our specialty chemistry solutions—from engine oils, performance coatings, and skincare to medical devices and plumbing systems —are powered by the expertise, passion, and commitment of people like you.

We tackle the world’s toughest challenges with science-based solutions, deeply understanding our customers to deliver innovative chemistry and differentiated value. Our inclusive culture, dedication to safety, and incredible global talent drive our success. Our solutions meet the evolving needs of the modern world—brought to life by science and, most importantly, delivered by you.

Whether you're in the lab, on the production floor, or in the office, you'll be part of a team around the world that empowers you to think boldly, drive results, and contribute to solutions that shape a better, more sustainable future.