Procurement Manager Asia
Asia
PROCUREMENT | APAC | LOCATION: SHANGHAI-CHINA
Why this role?
This role requires a hybrid leader who can balance the technical rigor of raw material chemistry/engineering with the commercial agility of product trading. The position holder will drive cost reduction, supply assurance, and sustainability initiatives across the Asia region while managing a high-performing team.
Position in the Organization
• Reports to: VP, Global Sourcing, External Manufacturing & Trading Operations
• Key interfaces: Procurement, Quality, Technical, R&D, Sales, Regulations
• Direct reports: 3
Key Responsibilities
• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies for Raw Materials (e.g., chemicals, metals, polymers, packaging) and Resell Products across Asia
• Conduct deep-dive market analysis to forecast price trends, supply/demand dynamics, and geopolitical risks specific to the Asian market
• Lead complex RFX processes for multi-year contracts, ensuring total cost of ownership optimization
• Identify and onboard new suppliers for resell products to expand the product portfolio, negotiate exclusive distribution agreements, and manage inventory turnover
• Build a resilient supply base by diversifying sources across China, SEA, India, and Japan/Korea
• Lead Quarterly Business Reviews with key strategic suppliers to track performance KPIs
• Implement supplier development programs to improve quality standards and production capacity for both raw materials and finished goods
• Resolve critical supply disruptions (force majeure, logistics bottlenecks, quality holds) in real-time
• Lead, mentor, and develop a regional team of category managers and buyers
• Foster a culture of high performance, ethical sourcing, and continuous improvement
• Build cross-functional alignment with Operations, R&D, Quality, and Sales teams to ensure procurement strategies support business goals
• Own the regional P&L for procurement, delivering annual cost savings targets
• Negotiate complex legal contracts, including pricing mechanisms, penalty clauses, and intellectual property protection for resell products
• Manage hedging strategies and currency fluctuations for raw material imports
• Drive ESG initiatives, ensuring suppliers comply with environmental regulations and human rights standards
• Lead the transition towards sustainable raw materials (e.g., recycled content, bio-based) and responsible sourcing certifications
What We Are Looking For
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or Chemistry
• Professional certifications (CIPS, CPSM, or APICS) are a strong advantage
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in Procurement/Sourcing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Proven experience managing direct materials and resell portfolios
• Deep understanding of the Asian supplier landscape; experience in China, ASEAN, and India is a plus
Development & Exposure
This role offers significant growth potential, including exposure to global strategic decision-making, cross-regional project leadership, and direct involvement in shaping the company’s sustainability roadmap. The position holder will have the opportunity to influence long-term category strategies, drive digital transformation in procurement, and build a strong regional network with key industry stakeholders. Continuous learning programs and close mentorship from senior executives further support professional evolution, and the regional scope provides a solid platform for making a broader organizational impact.