Petrochemical Category Buyer - Verdant Specialty Solutions, Inc.

About Verdant Specialty Solutions

Verdant Specialty Solutions is a global specialty chemical company. Its customers include world-leading personal care and home care brands, energy solutions providers, and industrial companies. Verdant’s vision is to be the go-to provider of batch specialty surfactant-based chemistry for applications in the consumer and industrial markets. Based in Houston, the company has nine locations in the US and Europe. Verdant’s international team of 285 employees are committed to safety, quality, and supply reliability.

Why Join Verdant?

Our business has endless opportunities for growth! Verdant is a fast-growing company with the spirit and creativity of a small business.  The company was formed in May 2021, so every employee plays an important role in culture and performance. It offers a dynamic ‘start up’ atmosphere with opportunities for professional growth and development. You can immediately make an impact in our business!

Commitment to Safety

Despite having the spirit of a small business, Verdant rivals against larger companies in its commitment to safety with industry leading environmental, quality and health standards.  Safety is absolutely our number one priority for all employees.

Position Summary: We are looking for a motivated Global Chemical Category Buyer(with w/emphasis in oleo and petrochemicals) who will be responsible for managing the procurement of chemicals and related substances for surfactant production on a global scale. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of contracts, indexes, supply chain dynamics, key performance indicators (KPIs), supplier management, and secondary sourcing processes within the chemical industry, coupled with excellent communication skills.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute procurement strategies for the assigned Chemical category, ensuring alignment with company objectives and cost-saving targets on a global scale.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers to secure favorable terms and conditions, including pricing, delivery schedules, and quality standards.
• Manage supplier relationships, including conducting regular performance evaluations, addressing issues, and fostering collaboration for continuous improvement.
• Implement secondary sourcing initiatives, identifying alternative suppliers and obtaining necessary approvals to ensure supply chain resilience and mitigate risks.
• Monitor market trends, commodity indexes, and supplier performance to identify opportunities for cost optimization and risk mitigation.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including production, R&D, and quality assurance teams, to ensure timely and reliable supply of raw materials.
• Track and analyze KPIs related to procurement performance, such as cost savings, on-time delivery, and supplier reliability, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Stay informed about regulatory requirements and industry standards affecting the Petrochemicals category, ensuring compliance in procurement practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain Management, Chemistry, or related field.
• Proven experience in procurement or purchasing within the chemical industry, with specific knowledge of Petrochemicals preferred.
• Familiarity with contract negotiation, supplier management, secondary sourcing, and procurement best practices.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret market data and commodity indexes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented approach with a focus on accuracy and precision in procurement processes.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, prioritizing tasks effectively to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with procurement software or ERP systems is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive and comprehensive health, dental and vision benefits through Cigna.
• Generous matching 401k plan
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Health Savings Account with employer contribution and yearly roll over (cannot be combined with FSA)
• Health advocacy and services
• Company paid life insurance
• Company paid short term disability insurance
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company discount programs available including discounts on gym membership and equipment, hotels, rental cars, etc.

EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability - http://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf