Category Manager (Ingredients)

Position Overview:

The Category Manager - Raw Materials and Ingredients will drive the development and implementation of sourcing strategies for raw materials essential to our manufacturing processes. This role is essential for securing a reliable supply of high-quality ingredients at competitive costs, while aligning procurement activities with business objectives and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience in strategic sourcing, contract negotiations, and supplier relationship management within a manufacturing context, with a particular focus on the supplement, food, or pharmaceutical industries. (Remote)

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Sourcing & Category Management:

• Develop and implement long-term sourcing strategies for key ingredients and raw materials used in supplement production.
• Identify, evaluate, and qualify suppliers based on quality, cost, reliability, and regulatory compliance.
• Conduct market research and stay informed of industry trends, commodity price movements, and emerging ingredient technologies.
• Build and manage a global supply base, fostering strong relationships with suppliers to ensure consistent, high-quality raw material supply.

Cost Optimization & Negotiation:

• Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure the best possible pricing, terms, and conditions while ensuring alignment with quality and delivery requirements.
• Develop cost-saving initiatives, including alternative sourcing options, supplier consolidation, and bulk purchasing opportunities.
• Monitor market pricing trends to take advantage of favorable cost conditions and minimize risk from price volatility.

Supplier Relationship Management:

• Build strong partnerships with key suppliers to ensure long-term collaboration, reliability, and innovation.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and audits with suppliers, focusing on quality, delivery, and service levels.
• Collaborate with suppliers to identify new ingredients and raw materials that can enhance product offerings or improve production efficiency.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with R&D, Quality, Manufacturing, and Regulatory teams to ensure ingredient specifications are met and aligned with product development and quality goals.
• Collaborate with the procurement team to ensure raw material purchases are in line with production schedules and inventory needs.
• Partner with marketing and product development teams to support new product launches by sourcing innovative ingredients and ensuring timely supply.

Risk Management & Compliance:

• Ensure that all sourced materials comply with relevant regulatory and legal standards (e.g., FDA, GMP, CTSCA) and sustainability guidelines.
• Identify potential risks in the supply chain and implement strategies to ensure business continuity.
• Manage supplier risk through effective contract management, compliance audits, and contingency planning.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cost savings, supplier lead times, quality performance, and delivery metrics.
• Generate regular reports and presentations for senior management, providing insights into category performance, market trends, and supplier management.
• Analyze purchasing data, supplier performance, and market trends to develop insights and recommend sourcing improvements.

Sustainability & Innovation:

• Drive initiatives focused on sustainability and ethical sourcing practices, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of industry standards.
• Explore new and innovative sourcing strategies, including partnerships with sustainable suppliers and technology-driven ingredient solutions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Food Science/Nutrition.
• 6-10 years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or category management with a focus on raw materials or ingredients in the supplement, food, or pharmaceutical industries.
• Expertise in supplier negotiations, contract management, and sourcing strategies.
• Deep understanding of the regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, GMP) that impact ingredient sourcing and supplier compliance.
• Experience in global sourcing and managing relationships with international suppliers.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in data analysis tools and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and influence internal and external stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.
• APICS, CPSM, or CSCP certification.
• Experience with sustainable sourcing practices and supplier risk management.

Pay, Benefits & Perks:

The estimated salary pay is $130,000 to $145,000. This pay is an estimate, and the exact compensation may vary depending on an applicant's location, skills, prior experience, professional qualifications, and other relevant factors. Additional compensation may also include incentive compensation (i.e. bonus or commission) if applicable.

At Nordic Naturals, 'step one' toward achieving our goal of a healthy world is taking care of our family of employees. We offer a comprehensive and attractive benefits program to employees and eligible family members. Our benefits & perks include the following:

• Multiple Health Plan Options
• Dental & Vision
• Dedicated Mental Health & Wellness Plan
• Access to Multiple EAP Plans
• Employer Paid Life Insurance
• PTO
• Paid Holidays (9 holidays per year)
• Paid Sabbatical (3 weeks of paid sabbatical after every 5 years of employment)
• 401(k) Retirement Plan (employer matches dollar for dollar up to 3%)
• Free Monthly Supplements