Position: Senior Manager - Purchase

Department: Supply Chain & Procurement

Reports To: Commercial Head

Location: Kharagpur (West Bengal,3 hours from Kolkata)

Position Summary

The Senior Manager - Purchase is responsible for the end-to-end procurement of chemical raw materials, including, but not limited to, Latex, Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR), Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR), and other essential chemical inputs critical to manufacturing operations. The role demands deep expertise in chemical procurement both domestically and internationally, with a strategic focus on optimising sourcing, cost, quality, availability, and supply chain security.

Key Responsibilities

Chemical Raw Material Procurement:

- Lead the sourcing, negotiation, and contracting of core chemical raw materials such as Latex, NBR, SBR, solvents, intermediates, and specialty chemicals vital to production.

- Proactively identify new suppliers and alternative sources for key materials to ensure uninterrupted supply and competitive pricing.

Strategic Sourcing & Market Analysis:

- Analyze global and domestic trends in chemical markets, with a specific focus on price movements, supply dynamics, and emerging vendors for Latex, NBR, SBR, and similar products.

- Implement risk mitigation strategies to address volatility in raw material prices and ensure supply continuity.

Supplier Relationship Management:

- Establish and nurture strong working relationships with chemical suppliers, traders, and distributors, both locally and internationally.

- Regularly evaluate supplier performance against quality, price, delivery, and sustainability benchmarks.

Contract Negotiation & Compliance:

- Drive contract negotiations for chemical purchases, ensuring optimal commercial terms, regulatory compliance (for import/export), and adherence to all safety/environmental standards.

- Oversee import documentation and customs clearance processes specific to chemical raw materials.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

- Work closely with production, R&D, quality control, and logistics teams to anticipate material needs, align specifications, and resolve supply chain bottlenecks.

Inventory & Cost Management:

- Monitor inventory levels of major raw materials such as Latex, NBR, and SBR, optimizing stock to minimize shortages or overstock.

- Implement cost-reduction initiatives while sustaining supplier quality and reliability.

Reporting & Analytics:

- Provide the Commercial Head and executive team with regular insights, analytics, and forecasts on chemical purchase dynamics, spend analysis, and market opportunities.

- Regulatory & Safety Compliance:

- Ensure all chemical procurement operations comply with relevant safety, environmental, foreign trade, and industry-specific regulations.

Qualifications & Experience

- Education: Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain Management, or a related field; a master's degree or professional certification is an asset.

= Experience: Minimum 12 years in procurement, with at least 5 years handling purchase of chemical raw materials-especially Latex, NBR, SBR, and similar commodities-across domestic and international markets.

Technical Skills:

- In-depth understanding of chemical raw materials, supplier ecosystems, and logistics.

- Familiarity with procurement/ERP systems and advanced Excel or analytics software.

Soft Skills:

Strong negotiation, communication, and leadership skills; adept at cross-functional engagement and influencing.

Industry Background:

Prior experience in manufacturing, chemicals, rubber, or related industries highly preferred.

Key Competencies

- Strategic Sourcing

- Analytical Decision-Making

- Supplier & Relationship Management

- Commercial Acumen

- Compliance and Ethical Standards

- Global Trade Knowledge

Additional Requirements

- Willingness to travel for supplier visits, negotiations, and industry events (domestic & international).

- Commitment to business ethics, safety, and sustainability in all procurement operations.

Rashmi Group is a $5.8 billion conglomerate and the world's second-largest manufacturer of Ductile Iron Pipes. As we continue to expand our global presence across the United States, South Africa, Europe, Spain, Italy, MENA, and Southeast Asia, we are keen to onboard experienced professionals who can drive growth and build strong client partnerships in our growth journey.