Head - Procurement - Chemicals Trading Firm

1. This global conglomerate operates across trade and distribution, manufacturing, energy, information technology, infrastructure and logistics, and agro-biotech sectors, driven by a philosophy of excellence rooted in strong core values.

• It focuses on creating a green and equitable future while leveraging international reach and a robust supply-chain ecosystem to deliver integrated, value-driven solutions. With a strong commitment to quality, whether in products, services, or talent, it continually pursues improvement and innovation.
• The organization harnesses synergies across its diverse business verticals to unlock opportunities and contribute to socio-economic progress. Its people-centric culture positions employees as key assets, fostering growth through inclusivity and global

2. Key Responsibilities:

A) Strategic Sourcing & Category Management:

• Develop sourcing strategies for multiple product categories (petrochemicals, bulk chemicals, specialty chemicals, polymers, metals).
• Identify and onboard reliable domestic and global suppliers, traders, and manufacturers.
• Track commodity trends, pricing cycles, and global market movements.
• Manage hedging strategies (where applicable) and evaluate market risks.

B) Procurement Operations:

• Handle end-to-end procurement: RFQs, negotiations, contracting, purchase orders, delivery follow-ups, and payment cycles.
• Ensure competitive landed pricing to maximize trading margins.
• Oversee imports, exports, bulk cargo, break-bulk, and containerized shipments.
• Optimize logistics, storage, and distribution networks.

C) Vendor & Supplier Relationship Management:

• Build strong global supplier relationships to secure allocation, priority supply, and long-term partnerships.
• Conduct vendor evaluations, performance audits, and compliance checks.
• Engage with principals for annual rate contracts, volume agreements, and price protections.

D) Market Intelligence & Demand Planning:

• Provide weekly/monthly analysis of market trends, price movements, inventory positions, and demand outlook.
• Coordinate with sales teams to understand demand forecasts, pipeline orders, and customer requirements.
• Suggest strategic stocking, bulk buying, or spot purchases based on market opportunities.

E) Team Leadership:

• Lead, mentor, and upskill a multi-category procurement and sourcing team.
• Build category expertise and succession planning within the function.
• Define KPIs, monitor performance, and ensure high functional productivity.

F. Commodity Expertise (Critical Requirement)

• Directly sourced and negotiated commodity chemicals such as Benzene, Ethylene, Sulphuric Acid, Methanol, Ammonia, or similar bulk petrochemical products.
• Strong understanding of global pricing benchmarks, feedstock linkages, and supply-demand dynamics.
• Experience in allocation management and principal negotiations during tight market cycles.

3. Compensation: Compensation will not be a constraint for the right candidate.

Mandatory Experience

- Minimum 4-5 years of direct experience in a Chemicals Trading company (mandatory).

- Total experience typically 10-15+ years in procurement/trading.

- Proven hands-on experience in sourcing and negotiating bulk commodity chemicals.

- Strong exposure to international sourcing and trade documentation.

- Demonstrated success in margin-driven procurement roles.

CANDIDATES WITH A TRADING BACKGROUND PREFERRED