At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies for polymers, manage supplier relationships, and drive commercial negotiations.
- Company: Join a leading manufacturing organisation focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-profile role shaping procurement strategies across multiple sites.
- Qualifications: Experience in commodity management and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.
Commodity Manager - Polymers in Doncaster employer: Hays
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commodity Manager - Polymers in Doncaster
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Hays.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Commodity Manager - Polymers in Doncaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Hays:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Hays. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Hays.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Hays!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Hays. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Hays's culture.
