Hays
Commoidty Manager - Polymers
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A leading manufacturing organisation is seeking a Commodity Manager within the Polymers Category who will take ownership of a strategically important procurement category across a multi-site operation. This is a senior procurement role focused on developing and delivering category strategies that support security of supply, commercial performance and long-term business objectives.
Working within a matrix environment, you will collaborate closely with operational, engineering and finance stakeholders while helping shape procurement strategy across a complex manufacturing business.
The organisation places a strong emphasis on continuous improvement, professional development and operational excellence, providing the opportunity to make a tangible impact across multiple manufacturing locations.
Your new role
As Commodity Manager, within the Polymer Category, you will be responsible for developing and implementing short, medium and long-term category strategies for polymer resins and additives. You will manage supplier relationships, lead commercial negotiations and drive procurement initiatives that deliver measurable value across the business.
A key aspect of the role will involve monitoring commodity markets, understanding raw material cost drivers and analysing market trends to support pricing strategies, supplier negotiations and forward cost visibility. You will assess supply risks, develop sourcing roadmaps and create strategies that support production requirements and operational performance.
You will lead contract negotiations covering pricing, payment terms and contractual protections while managing contract renewals, supplier agreements and re-tendering activities. Working closely with suppliers, you will implement structured performance management processes focused on quality, cost and delivery, while driving continuous improvement and identifying opportunities to strengthen supply chain resilience.
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This role also requires strong stakeholder engagement. Acting as the commercial lead across multiple sites, you will influence senior leaders, challenge specifications and sourcing approaches where appropriate, and drive compliance with procurement governance and best practice. You will be accountable for delivering against key procurement KPIs, including cost savings, cost avoidance, supplier performance, payment term improvements and contract coverage.
What you'll need to succeed
To be successful in this Commodity Manager position, you will have proven experience in commodity or category management within a manufacturing environment, alongside a strong track record of commercial negotiation and contract management.
You will possess a strong understanding of procurement and supply chain principles, with experience managing complex supply chains and multi-site or regional spend portfolios. Knowledge of manufacturing processes, cost structures and commodity market dynamics will be highly valuable, particularly the ability to interpret cost drivers, market trends and supply risks.
Strong stakeholder management skills are essential, as is the ability to influence without direct authority within a matrix organisation. You will be commercially astute, highly analytical and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Familiarity with ERP or MRP systems is required, with exposure to IFS being advantageous.
A relevant degree or equivalent experience is required, together with a proactive, self-driven approach and willingness to travel extensively across UK and international sites.
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What you'll get in return
In return, you will have the opportunity to take ownership of a high-profile procurement category within a large manufacturing environment and play a key role in shaping category strategy, supplier performance and commercial outcomes. You will work with senior stakeholders across multiple sites, gain exposure to strategic procurement initiatives and contribute to wider transformation and continuous improvement programmes.
The organisation is committed to supporting continuous learning and professional development, providing opportunities to broaden your knowledge, strengthen your procurement expertise and further develop your career within a collaborative and performance-focused environment. The role offers a mix between being site-based with flexibility for hybrid working where business needs allow, alongside regular engagement with manufacturing sites, suppliers and operational teams.
A competitive salary and benefits package is on offer, depending on experience.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
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