Senior Category Manager
At Sensient Technologies, we are experts in the science, art and innovation of color and flavor. We are market-savvy and visionary. We are problem solvers. And we will be better with you.
Sensient is seeking a dynamic and experienced Strategic Sourcing Professional to lead our direct food ingredient and packaging categories. This Senior Category Manager will play a key role in shaping and executing category management strategies that align with Sensient’s long-term business objectives. Your expertise will drive performance, foster supplier collaboration, and enhance the overall value we deliver to our customers.
What you’ll do:
- Develop and execute comprehensive category strategies for food ingredients and packaging.
- Analyze market trends, industry benchmarks, and cost drivers to achieve the lowest Total Cost of Ownership.
- Manage a strategic sourcing process to efficiently handle category needs, from sourcing to performance evaluation.
- Build and maintain long-term, collaborative relationships with key suppliers to drive innovation and competitive advantage.
- Use Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) techniques to maximize value through supplier partnerships.
- Lead multi-level negotiations with suppliers, guiding internal stakeholders through legal, commercial, and service level agreements.
What you’ll bring:
- Extensive experience in managing sourcing for food ingredients and packaging categories. Preferably 7+ years of experience
- Proven ability to develop and implement category strategies and long-term sourcing initiatives.
- Strong collaboration skills, with experience working cross-functionally with teams such as Research & Development, operations, supply chain, and commercial.
- Track record of process improvements in purchasing and supplier management.
- Expertise in SKU rationalization and leveraging supplier base to achieve better pricing and terms.
- Strong negotiation skills with a deep understanding of supplier contracting and value analysis techniques.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (JDE preferred) and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Preferred Bachelor’s degree.
What you’ll get:
- An opportunity to lead sourcing efforts for a global leader in food ingredients and packaging.
- A collaborative work environment where your expertise will be valued and directly impact business success.
- Ability to collaborate with peers and colleagues in office 5 days a week.
- Competitive compensation and benefits package.
- Opportunities for career growth and professional development within a dynamic, innovative company.
The salary range for this position is$130,000 – $170,000 USD. Pay within the range is based on several factors, which may include, but are not limited to, education, work experience, specialized training, and labor market conditions. In addition to salary, Sensient is proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits program to support the holistic well-being of our employees and their families.
About Sensient:
Sensient Technologies Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and marketer of colors, flavors, and extracts. Sensient employs advanced technologies at facilities around the world to develop specialty food and beverage systems, cosmetic and pharmaceutical systems, specialty colors, and other specialty and fine chemicals. The Company's customers include major international manufacturers representing most of the world's best-known brands.
- SPONSORSHP: Due to our inability to offer visa sponsorship, we can only consider candidates who are authorized to work in (country) without the need for employment visa sponsorship.
- RELOCATION: We are unable to offer relocation assistance. The successful candidate will be expected to work at (location) and must reside in area or be willing to commute.
- THIRD PARTY AGENCY: Any unsolicited submissions received from recruitment agencies will be considered property of Sensient Technologies, and we will not be liable for any fees or obligations related to those submissions
Sensient is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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innovation has never looked so good
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our stories We work together in person to put the needs of our customers first and get results. Be different. Be Sensient. -
who we are We’re on a mission across the globe to unlock the potential of our customers’ food, pharmaceutical, and personal care products.
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faq You have questions? here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions people have about a career with Sensient.
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the Americas We offer multiple locations across the United States, Latin America, and Canada. Choose the one you’re most interested in to learn more about it and see available roles.
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APAC region We offer multiple locations across the Asia-Pacific region. Choose the one you’re most interested in to learn more about it and see available roles.
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EMEA region We offer multiple locations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Choose the one you’re most interested in to learn more about it and see available roles.
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global locations At Sensient, we believe in the power of collaborating face-to-face, in person. With locations around the world, we offer plenty of opportunities to build the career that best suits you. Learn more about our global locations.
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what we do We develop and manufacture flavors, colors, and extracts that bring our customers’ products to life. Our products positively impact the daily experience of millions.
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sustainability Sustainability is central to our mission at Sensient. Everyone here is dedicated to working together to bring sustainable innovations to the world. This includes vegan flavors, low-carbon products, natural and organic ingredients, and so much more.
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key hiring areas at Sensient Technologies Many paths to success. With a variety of categories and locations, it’s important to find the role that fits you best.
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learning & development We offer a variety of unmatched opportunities for training designed to help you develop your skills. Each program is tailored to specific areas of focus and intended to bring out your best while setting you up for a long, exciting, and fruitful career at Sensient. Take control of your future and learn more about our development programs.
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tips for your application Interested in applying to join us, but not sure how to begin? We’ve compiled a list of tips and advice from some current employees to help you get started.
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careers in research & development Where innovation is born and applied. If you’re an analytic thinker, scientific researcher, and driven winner, our Research and Development (R&D) department is where you can take control of your career.
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coaching at Sensient Having a strong coaching culture is a top priority for Sensient. We are committed to helping our employees grow and develop in their roles to meet their future career goals.
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sales careers Are you ambitious with a competitive spirit? Do you want to be rewarded for your hard work and results? Does your professional success matter to you? If so, join Sensient’s elite sales team.
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working at juneau Discover what makes working at the Juneau, WI facility unique! With a rich history, and a close-knit team of under 100 employees, this location offers a collaborative work environment where personal connections thrive.
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working in st. louis Discover what it's like working at our Colors Headquarters! With a dynamic work environment, you’ll have opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute with a focus on innovation and career development.
