At Quaker Houghton, we are experts in the development, production and application of industrial process fluids, lubricants and coatings for the manufacturing industry. We have been an integral part in the growth of the world’s largest industrial and manufacturing companies from aerospace and automotive to primary metal and energy. Today, we have a global presence, with our corporate headquarters located in Conshohocken, PA. Quaker Houghton is a global publicly traded company with a unique collaborative culture that supports career growth for its associates.
About the Role
As an EMEA Category Manager, you will develop and implement a vision, strategy, and tactical plan for your assigned category, supported by a robust management platform. You will be responsible for maximizing supplier value through optimal sourcing strategies, efficient resource deployment, and strong alignment with the Procurement Leadership Team.
This role reports to the Manager, Direct Procurement EMEA, and involves close collaboration with global colleagues across Quaker Houghton.
What will you do?
- Lead sourcing and procurement of chemical raw materials for our seven EMEA sites, ensuring a secure supply while continuously identifying opportunities for cost improvement and value creation across the region
- Develop, align, and implement sourcing strategies in collaboration with internal stakeholders (R&D, Marketing, Operations, and senior leadership)
- Manage and continuously improve the performance of key suppliers across Quality, Delivery, Innovation, and Sustainability
- Oversee the supplier base and ensure contracts are adhered to
- Partner with the Raw Material Technical Group on projects such as new product development, alternative sourcing, and simplification initiatives
- Monitor and communicate market trends and purchasing performance to internal stakeholders
- Travel occasionally to company sites or supplier locations as needed
What are we looking for?
- At least 5 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing and contracting within the chemical, food, pharmaceutical, or cosmetics industries
- Demonstrated experience developing and executing strategic sourcing plans, ideally within a global, matrixed organization
- Professional proficiency in English
- Ability to commute to our site in Uithoorn
What do we offer?
- Hybrid working arrangements to support work-life balance
- Health insurance, pension plan, and additional benefits
- Two paid volunteer days per year to support a cause of your choice
- Opportunities for career growth in Procurement, Supply Chain, or related areas within an international environment that encourages autonomy and initiative
- Access to QH University (500+ learning programs) and career development opportunities
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and recognition initiatives, including Women in Manufacturing, Next Gen, and PRIDE employee resource groups, as well as Global Giving and Impact Awards programs
About Us
We are the global leader in industrial process fluids present in 40+ countries continually improving and innovating so the world’s steel, aluminum, automotive, aircraft, machinery and industrial parts manufacturers can stay ahead in a changing world. Throughout our 100+ locations, our chemists, engineers and industry experts partner with our customers to continually improve their operations so they can run even more efficiently, even more effectively, whatever comes next.
Our values: Live Safe, Exceed Customer Expectations, Drive Results, Embrace Diversity, Do Great Things Together, Act with Integrity.
Our core values embody who we are as a company, guide our decisions and inspire us. Our commitment to these values, in words and actions, builds a safer, stronger Quaker Houghton. They are the fundamental beliefs that guide our internal conduct and our relationship with the outside world.
Are you a QH colleague?
Please contact your TA Partner, Honorata Florczak or your HRBP for more information about the role and/or how to apply.
Quaker Houghton is committed to equal employment opportunities and a workplace free of discrimination. Applications are welcome from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, gender identity, age, disability, ethnic origin, religion, or sexual orientation. In line with the EU Pay Transparency Directive, the salary range for this role is disclosed before the interview to support transparency and consistency in our hiring process. Candidates will not be asked about their salary history. Our company uses a structured job level and salary band framework to support objective and consistent compensation decisions.
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