Job description
we are seeking an experienced sourcing specialist – polymers & chemicals to lead strategic sourcing and supplier management for raw materials and related chemical categories. The role demands strong technical understanding of polymers and chemicals, proven strategic sourcing expertise, and the ability to drive productivity, innovation, and sustainability across a global or regional supply base.
this is an individual contributor role with high visibility and impact—ideal for a professional who can combine strategic insight, stakeholder management, and deep category expertise.
key responsibilities
1. Category & supplier strategy
* develop and implement category strategies for polymers, resins, solvents, and specialty chemicals aligned with business objectives.
* conduct spend analysis, market intelligence, and supplier segmentation to identify cost and risk optimization opportunities.
* drive standardization, supplier consolidation, and innovation partnerships across regions.
2. Strategic sourcing execution
* lead end-to-end sourcing activities—rfi/rfp/rfq, negotiations, contracting, and supplier onboarding.
* build cost models and use data analytics to drive informed sourcing decisions.
* deliver measurable cost savings, value improvements, and supplier performance outcomes.
3. Supplier relationship & performance management
* establish long-term partnerships with key suppliers to ensure quality, reliability, and innovation.
* monitor supplier performance (otif, quality, cost, and sustainability metrics) and lead improvement actions.
* manage risk assessment and mitigation strategies across the supply chain.
4. Cross-functional collaboration
* partner closely with manufacturing, r&d, quality, finance, and ehs to ensure sourcing solutions meet technical and compliance requirements.
* support new product introductions (npi) by identifying and qualifying suppliers early in the development cycle.
* influence business stakeholders and senior leadership with data-driven sourcing recommendations.
5. Compliance, sustainability & governance
* ensure full adherence to company policies, ethics, and regulatory standards in all sourcing activities.
* integrate sustainability and esg goals into supplier evaluation and selection.
* maintain up-to-date documentation and audit readiness for all sourcing processes.
qualifications & experience
* bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, materials science, supply chain management, or equivalent.
* 15+ years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing or procurement with significant exposure to polymers, resins, and chemicals.
* deep understanding of global chemical markets, supplier dynamics, and raw material cost structures.
* proven ability to lead complex negotiations and manage senior supplier relationships.
* strong analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder influencing skills.
* sap/ariba or similar procurement system knowledge preferred.
* experience in a manufacturing or process industry (e.g., automotive, adhesives, industrial, or specialty chemicals) is desirable.
key competencies
* strategic thinking & commercial acumen
* technical understanding of chemical supply chains
* data-driven decision making
* relationship & stakeholder management
* negotiation & contracting expertise
* business ethics & integrity
* agility & continuous improvement mindset
what we offer
* opportunity to influence sourcing strategy for critical raw materials in a global organization.
* exposure to innovation-driven procurement projects and sustainability initiatives.
* a collaborative and performance-oriented work culture that values expertise and leadership.
learn more about 3m’s creative solutions to the world’s problems at www.3m.com or on instagram, facebook, and linkedin @3m. Safety is a core value at 3m. All employees are expected to contribute to a strong environmental health and safety (ehs) culture by following safety policies, identifying hazards, and engaging in continuous improvement.
please note: your application may not be considered if you do not provide your education and work history, either by: 1) uploading a resume, or 2) entering the information into the application fields directly.
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