This category specialist role is responsible for obtaining the procurement of logistics and packaging materials across China in align with the Global / Regional category strategies. He/she need to work through established contracts for centrally sourced items and/or through the selection of suppliers for non-centrally sourced items, including supplier performance tracking, contract negotiation & documentation, provides support to cost optimization, supply chain risk management and sourcing project if needed.
· Be responsible for day-to-day category procurement operation to guarantee the supply of logistics service and packaging materials.
· Identify and implement most cost effective and efficient way to obtain the local items or services.
· Set up and manage bid requests for independently sourced items. Work with internal customers to identify, understand and translate purchasing needs.
· Assist local contract negotiations, contract draft and administration of contract terms, and ensure compliance with corporate policies and basic risk management guidelines.
· Collaborate closely with Logistics operation, Production, Planning, and Quality teams to understand business needs and deliver effective procurement solutions.
· Monitor and evaluate supplier performance, timely review with key stakeholders and drive continuous improvement actions.
· Handle commercial disputes, quality claims, and urgent delivery issues in coordination with internal stakeholders and suppliers.
· Ensure full compliance with Cabot’s Purchasing Ethics, Sarbanes-Oxley requirements, ISO standards, and audit regulations.
· Support regional procurement manager in market analysis, data analytics, and strategy development for logistics and packaging categories.
· Provide training and shares category expertise to less experienced stakeholders if needed.
· Other tasks assigned by line manager
Competencies
· Comprehensive knowledge of logistics and/or packaging markets, including cost structures, supplier landscapes, and industry trends.
· Solid understanding of procurement processes, contract fundmentals, and negotiation techniques with developing commercial acumen.
· Good cross-functional communication skills; able to effectively coordinate internal and external stakeholders effectively in both English and Chinese.
· Developed project management awareness with the ability to indepentently execture basic procurement projects and proactively contribute to KPI achievement
· Proficient in Microsoft Office (especially Excel and PowerPoint), ERP systems (e.g., SAP, JDE), and procurement tools (e.g., Coupa).
· Solid analytical and problem-solving skills; able to make rational decisions efficiently under pressure or in complex situations.
· Keen attention to detail with good planning and organizational capabilities; able to proritize and manage multiple tasks efficiently in a fast – paced setting.
· High integrity and strong ethical standards in all procurement activities.
Education & Experience
· Bachelor’s degree or above in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, International Business, Engineering, or related field.
· Minimum 5 years of procurement experience in logistics or packaging, preferably in chemical or manufacturing industries.
· Fluent in both written and spoken English and Chinese; able to handle business correspondence and meetings in English.