Regional Director, Procurement

Department: Procurement

Hiring Manager:  President & CEO

FLSA Status: Exempt

Working Status: Full-Time

Location:  Multiple Options 

JOB SUMMARY

The Regional Director for Procurement is responsible for developing and executing procurement strategies related to direct and indirect procurement, and energy supply across UBE Corporation America Inc. and its subsidiaries. This role leads the negotiation, administration, and optimization of raw materials and energy contracts, ensuring cost competitiveness, supply continuity, regulatory compliance, and alignment with corporate sustainability and operational objectives.

The Regional Director for Procurement partners directly with Business Units and Corporate Functional Services to oversee supplier relationships, evaluate market conditions, mitigate risk, and drive long-term value through strategic sourcing initiatives. This position requires strong analytical capability, contract management expertise, and a proactive, leadership-oriented approach to managing energy procurement within a complex, multi-site manufacturing environment.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage supplier selection for UCAI group companies, including evaluating new suppliers, collecting and comparing offers, and making award decisions.
• Lead the strategic sourcing and procurement of polyurethane and petrochemical raw materials, ensuring cost competitiveness, supply continuity, quality compliance, and alignment with operational and sustainability objectives.
• Lead the strategic sourcing and procurement of direct and indirect procurement including minor raw materials and support supply contracts UCAI group companies.
• Establish the regional procurement team to execute these responsibilities with co-located buyers and identify other needed resources.  
• Enhance all departmental activities through ongoing process and ERP technology innovation.
• Lead and document contract negotiations, including framework agreements that address quality standards, capacity planning, cost reimbursements, and logistics.
• Develop risk management procedures to mitigate losses in the event of product shortages.
• Prepare purchasing award summaries and manage documentation for suppliers involved in production and after-sales casting components.
• Proactively lead supplier relationships, including ongoing performance evaluations, conflict resolution, and long-term partnerships.
• Prepare and present procurement metrics including cost savings, on-time delivery, and supplier scorecards.
• Negotiate competitive pricing, contract terms, and long-term agreements with suppliers.
• Proactively resolve issues related to pricing, invoicing, and contractual obligations.
• Create and implement standardized purchasing processes, tools, and reporting methods and establish regular reviews.
• Create viable solutions and options for complex procurement challenges.
• Contribute to company-wide cost savings initiatives.
• Conduct market research and analysis to stay updated on industry trends, economic factors, supplier capabilities and pricing fluctuations.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong project management and leadership abilities.
• Deep understanding of procurement processes, forecasting, and contract negotiations.
• Advanced negotiation skills 
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in ambiguous, fast-paced environments and manage competing priorities. 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business administration, chemistry, chemical engineering or related field. 
• Minimum 10+ years of experience of purchasing or supply chain management (3+ years in procurement leadership) in a manufacturing environment, preferably the chemical industry.
• Experience working in corporate procurement environments, with exposure to enterprise-level sourcing strategies and governance.
• At least 5 years of experience leading sourcing projects with cross-functional teams.
• Proven experience with ERP systems; SAP, SAP S/4 Hana.
• Working knowledge of ISO9001.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Working Knowledge of IATF 16949.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: UBE is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.