Role Overview:

We are seeking a Global Strategic Sourcing professional with direct procurement experience in raw materials, specifically chemicals and commodities. The company sources and procures chemicals from Southeast Asia, both for its internal consumption and for its global clients. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping the sourcing strategy for these raw materials, ensuring cost efficiency, supplier quality, and reliable supply chains. The ideal candidate should be strong in costing, vendor evaluation, new vendor development, and negotiation, and agile enough to thrive in a fast-paced, start-up environment.

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead and manage sourcing and procurement of chemical raw materials from Southeast Asia, for internal consumption as well as for the company's global clients.

- Carry out should-cost analysis to set target prices, strengthen negotiations, and protect margins on every purchase.

- Build and nurture relationships with key suppliers globally and serve as the main point of contact for international stakeholders, ensuring the best possible cost, quality, and service.

- Evaluate and assess suppliers based on criteria such as performance, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and compliance with global standards.

- Identify, develop, and onboard new vendors across Southeast Asia to build a competitive and reliable supply base.

- Negotiate and finalize supplier contracts and commercial T&Cs (pricing, payment terms, Incoterms, delivery), ensuring favorable terms for the business.

- Drive continuous improvements in sourcing strategies, working cross-functionally with sales, R&D, operations, and finance teams to align with organizational goals.

- Manage supplier performance, ensuring on-time delivery, quality assurance, and adherence to sustainability standards.

- Stay updated on global market trends, price movements, emerging suppliers, and new technologies in the chemical industry to provide strategic insights.

- Work closely with the leadership team to ensure sourcing strategies align with the company's growth objectives.

Desired Skills & Qualifications:

- MBA or BTech

- Global sourcing experience with hands-on direct procurement of raw materials, specifically chemicals and commodities.

- Strong costing skills, including should-costing, with a sharp eye for margins.

- Strong understanding of global supply chains, sourcing practices, and supplier management.

- Proven ability to evaluate suppliers, develop new vendors, negotiate and finalize contracts and T&Cs, and drive cost reduction strategies.

- Experience working in a dynamic, fast-paced, start-up culture with the ability to pivot and adapt.

- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the confidence to engage international stakeholders.

- Global experience and familiarity with international markets and regulations is highly desirable; exposure to Southeast Asian suppliers is a plus.

- Agility and flexibility to work in a rapidly evolving environment with minimal supervision.

Personality & Cultural Fit:

- A dynamic, proactive, and driven individual with a keen ability to work in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.

- Strong problem-solving skills with a creative and adaptable approach to challenges.

- Able to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and diverse global stakeholders.

- A passion for sustainability and long-term strategic growth.