Job Information
Aston Carter Category Manager in Saint Louis, Missouri
Job Title: Sourcing Manager - Direct Materials
Job Description
Lead strategic sourcing initiatives across critical direct materials categories, focusing on glass tape and specialty films. Drive measurable savings, manage supplier strategies, and collaborate closely with engineering and operations to support a global manufacturing business.
Responsibilities
Execute strategic sourcing initiatives for direct materials, with emphasis on glass tape and specialty films.
Drive cost savings and manage supplier relationships effectively.
Partner with engineering and operations teams to support global manufacturing objectives.
Conduct market analysis and develop sourcing strategies.
Prepare and execute negotiation plans.
Manage complex supplier relationships and align spend accountability with formal KPIs.
Essential Skills
5+ years of strategic category management experience focused on direct materials.
Proven track record in cost savings and cost avoidance delivery.
Technical understanding of raw materials, specifically glass tape, polyester film, and specialty/technical tapes.
Advanced negotiation skills and experience managing complex supplier relationships.
Cross-functional partnership with engineering, manufacturing, finance, and planning teams.
Strong analytical and financial acumen.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
SAP experience.
CPSM, CSCP, or PMP certification.
Ability to communicate strategy clearly to leadership.
Comfort navigating ambiguity and evolving priorities.
Experience in manufacturing or industrial environments.
Work Environment
Work in a global organization with strong commercial and engineering teams. The role is highly cross-functional and offers exposure to leadership, including the CFO and Controller. The environment is dynamic with ongoing changes in systems and supplier landscapes. The position is direct placement, Monday to Friday, onsite, with growth opportunities, team outings based on goals, and a comprehensive 3-month training program.
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Saint Louis, MO.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $110000.00 - $120000.00/yr.
ALTANA positions itself as a long‑term, people‑focused organization with a strong emphasis on stability, development, and flexibility. Compensation & Financial Benefits Competitive, performance‑based compensation Long‑term employment stability as a privately held company Company car programs available for eligible roles, including electric vehicle options Work–Life Balance & Flexibility Flexible working models depending on role and location Emphasis on sustainable workloads and long‑term careers rather than short‑term turnover Generous vacation and time‑off policies aligned with local markets Career Development & Growth Strong investment in training, development, and continuous learning Clear opportunities for internal growth across ALTANA’s global business units Support for professional development, leadership training, and skill expansion Exposure to cross‑functional and international work within the ALTANA group Global Mobility & Culture International organization with opportunities to collaborate globally Encouragement of internal mobility across business units and regions Inclusive, values‑driven culture with a focus on collaboration and innovation Health, Well‑Being & Employee Support Comprehensive health and wellness offerings (varies by region) Focus on employee well‑being, safety, and long‑term engagement Modern, professional working environments
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Saint Louis,MO.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 17, 2026.
About Aston Carter:
Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com (%20astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com) for other accommodation options.