Global Category Manager - Utilities

Job Title: Global Category Manager - Utilities

Job Location: Brecksville, OH / Wickliffe, OH / Deer Park, TX

Job type: Full-Time 

Type of role: Hybrid. 4 days on-site required. 

 

About Lubrizol:

 

The Lubrizol Corporation, a Berkshire Hathaway company, is a specialty chemical company whose science delivers sustainable solutions to advance mobility, improve wellbeing and enhance modern life. Founded in 1928, Lubrizol owns and operates more than 100 manufacturing facilities, sales, and technical offices around the world and has about 8,000 employees. For more information, visit www.Lubrizol.com.  

 

We value diversity in professional backgrounds and life experiences. By enabling a consistent, unbiased, and transparent recruitment process, Lubrizol seeks to create a positive experience for candidates so we can get to know them at their best. We recognize unique work and life situations and offer flexibility, ensuring our employees feel engaged and fulfilled in every aspect of life. 

 

What You'll Do:  

 

The Global Category Manager – Utilities is responsible for managing Lubrizol’s global portfolio of suppliers providing indirect goods and services within the Utilities category. This role develops and executes strategic category plans to deliver maximum value through secure supply chains, optimized total cost of ownership (TCO), and competitive advantage, while aligning with business needs. The position reports to the Procurement Director and Chief Procurement Officer (CPO).

 

What We're Looking For: 

 

• Manage Lubrizol’s global Utilities category portfolio, developing and executing strategic plans to ensure secure supply, optimized total cost of ownership (TCO), and competitive advantage aligned with business needs.
• Lead category vision, strategy, and roadmap within a matrix organization, translating corporate strategies into procurement actions.
• Track energy markets, update leadership on trends, and implement layered purchasing strategies to meet energy requirements.
• Source and onboard global suppliers, negotiate master agreements, and manage supplier relationships for performance and compliance.
• Coordinate global strategy with regional leaders and stakeholders to maximize spend leverage and apply best practices across regions.
• Create multi-year sourcing strategies focused on TCO, supply assurance, quality, service, and innovation.
• Drive pricing and negotiation strategies for critical goods and services, applying market intelligence to mitigate risk and enhance competitive position.
• Ensure compliance with HSES policies, Supplier Code of Conduct, sustainability standards, and corporate procurement policies.
• Represent Lubrizol professionally and ethically to maintain brand integrity.

 

Skills That Make a Difference: 

 

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Supply Chain, Business, or related field (or equivalent experience); advanced degree or MBA preferred.
• Minimum 10 years in the chemical industry recommended, with experience in energy trading, tracking, and market analysis.
• Proven ability to lead strategy development and implementation, with strong analytical, organizational, and negotiation skills.
• Fluent in English with excellent communication skills; ability to work effectively across cultures and regions.
• Knowledge of regional regulatory, legal, tax, and import/export requirements; sourcing and procurement lifecycle expertise.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; ERP experience (SAP, BOBJ) considered a plus.
• Training in strategy development and execution desirable.
• Ability to manage stakeholder requirements and adapt procurement plans accordingly.
• Ability to travel domestically (visiting plants, vendors) up to 15-20% 

 

Perks and Rewards That Inspire