Global Commodity Manager (Direct Materials)

Zotefoams Plc; Croydon; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global manufacturer located in Croydon is looking for a Global Commodity Manager for Direct Raw Materials. This role will focus on developing sourcing strategies for key polymers and chemicals, negotiating long-term supply agreements, and working closely with operations and R&D teams. Candidates should have over 7 years of experience in strategic procurement and a solid understanding of global raw material markets. This position offers an opportunity to influence sustainability and innovation in a dynamic work environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years' experience in strategic procurement or commodity management.
• Proven track record negotiating large volume global supply contracts.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes within plastics, polymers or chemicals.

Responsibilities

• Develop global sourcing strategies for raw materials.
• Build partnerships with suppliers to drive innovation and cost efficiency.
• Negotiate long term supply agreements to ensure price stability.
• Monitor global commodity markets and conduct cost analysis.
• Track supplier performance against KPIs.

Skills

Commercial acumen

Negotiation capability

Analytical skills

Communication across teams

Collaboration

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or Business

CIPS qualification or equivalent

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, with facilities in Croydon, UK; Kentucky and Oklahoma, USA; Brzeg, Poland; and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT).

We produce lightweight foams for a wide range of markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive, and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and supplies advanced insulation systems.

The Company is on a strong growth trajectory, with significant revenue and profitability increases in recent years and ambitious plans for the future.

About the Role:

The Global Commodity Manager for Direct Raw Materials will lead the sourcing strategy for all key polymers, resins and chemical inputs used across our manufacturing operations. This role is central to ensuring the business has secure, cost competitive and high quality raw materials that support sustainability goals and product innovation.

You will manage a global supplier portfolio, negotiate long term strategic agreements and work closely with R&D, operations and supply chain to ensure material specifications and supply continuity align with business needs.

Role Responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver global sourcing strategies for raw materials including polymers, foaming agents, additives and chemical inputs.
• Build strong partnerships with global suppliers to drive innovation, quality and cost efficiency.
• Monitor global commodity markets and lead cost analysis, identifying risks and cost drivers.
• Negotiate long term supply agreements that ensure price stability and mitigate supply risks.
• Work closely with operations and quality teams to ensure materials meet technical and manufacturing requirements.
• Support new product development through alignment of material specifications with R&D and technical teams.
• Identify and manage supply chain risks including material shortages, geopolitical exposure and logistics constraints.
• Track supplier performance against KPIs including OTIF, quality, cost savings and innovation contribution.

What you’ll need:

Qualifications & Knowledge

• Degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or Business.
• CIPS qualification or equivalent preferred.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes within plastics, polymers or chemical sectors.
• Knowledge of global raw material markets, supply chains, logistics and import/export.

Experience

• 7+ years’ experience in strategic procurement or commodity management within raw materials or plastics manufacturing.
• Proven track record negotiating large volume global supply contracts.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems and managing supplier performance.

Skills

• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation capability.
• Excellent analytical skills with a data driven approach to decision making.
• Confident communicating across technical and commercial teams.
• Collaborative, proactive and adaptable in a fast moving global environment.

What were looking for?

• Someone with deep raw materials knowledge who can think strategically and commercially.
• A strong influencer who can build credible relationships with global suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• A problem solver with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Someone who can balance cost, supply continuity, sustainability and innovation effectively.

Why Join Us?

At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development.

Our Values

Courage - The courage to take bold action to ensure that we succeed in tackling our challenges and opportunities.

Impact – Dedicated to making a significant and positive impact in everything we do.

Respect - Cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and collaboration is encouraged.

Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees