IF - Procurement Manager

Job Description Scroll down to find an indepth overview of this job, and what is expected of candidates Make an application by clicking on the Apply button. Why work for us? Alkegen brings together two of the world’s leading specialty materials companies to create one new, innovation-driven leader focused on battery technologies, filtration media, and specialty insulation and sealing materials. Through global reach and breakthrough inventions, we’re delivering products that enable the world to breathe easier, live greener, and go further than ever before. With over 60 manufacturing facilities with a global workforce of over 9,000 of the industry’s most experienced talent, including insulation and filtration experts, Alkegen is uniquely positioned to help customers impact the environment in meaningful ways. Alkegen offers a range of dynamic career opportunities with globe-spanning reach. From production operators to engineers, technicians to specialists, sales to leadership, we’re always looking for top talent ready to bring their best. Come grow with us About the Role The Procurement Category Manager – APAC (Industrial Filtration) plays a key strategic role in developing and executing sourcing strategies for raw materials and commodities across the region. This position supports Alkegen’s Industrial Filtration business globally by identifying, developing, and managing supplier relationships that deliver competitive cost, quality, and supply reliability. The role requires strong commercial acumen, technical understanding of non-woven and filtration materials such polypropylene, polyester fibres, melt blown media, additives, binders and scrims, and the ability to work cross-functionally with Production, R&D, Quality, and Commercial teams to drive total cost of ownership improvements and supplier performance excellence. Key Responsibilities Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Development Act as the subject matter expert for assigned material categories within the Industrial Filtration business. Develop and execute multi-year category strategies to achieve cost, quality, and risk reduction targets. Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers across China and APAC to strengthen Alkegen’s supply base. Leverage Alkegen’s global footprint to negotiate favourable terms and optimize total cost of ownership. Conduct market analysis and benchmarking to stay informed of trends, pricing, and competitive activity. Perform on-site supplier assessments and lead corrective action plans for quality or delivery issues. Operational Procurement & Market Intelligence Support site Purchasing Managers with purchase order placement, order confirmations, and delivery tracking. Coordinate monthly calls with regional Purchasing Managers to update commodity pricing and market trends. Monitor key raw material prices (fibres, chemicals, scrims) and provide regular pricing updates to global teams. Assist with supplier quotations and cost breakdowns for new business bids and tenders. Consolidate global raw material SKUs where feasible to drive efficiency and cost reduction. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Production, Application Engineering, and Commercial teams to identify alternate raw materials and technical solutions. Support the Global Quality and Operations teams in resolving vendor quality issues. Lead or participate in supplier selection, RFQ issuance, and contract negotiation processes. Coordinate raw material sampling and testing with global manufacturing sites. Ensure adherence to Alkegen’s New Supplier Approval process and procurement governance standards. Category Excellence & Process Improvement Develop and maintain detailed category plans, including milestones, savings targets, and implementation roadmaps. Monitor supplier performance and compliance with contracts and procurement policies. Drive continuous improvement and promote best practices in sourcing and supplier management. Participate in trade shows and industry forums to identify innovation opportunities and emerging suppliers. Qualifications and Experience Bachelor’s degree or above in Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering, or Textiles (or related field). 5–7 years’ experience in procurement, sourcing, or category management, ideally within industrial materials, filtration, or textiles. Experience managing suppliers across China/APAC in a global manufacturing environment. Strong negotiation, analytical, and project management skills. Proven ability to manage complex supplier relationships and deliver measurable cost savings. Familiarity with procurement systems and tools (e.g., ERP, Tableau, Excel). Fluent in Mandarin and English (written and verbal). xrczosw Excellent interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management skills.