Commercial Associate

The Opportunity

As a key member of the commercial team, he or she will report to a Sourcing Manager. This is a developmental role with responsibilities and training in sourcing, sales and product management functions. Role will be based at our Corporate Headquarters (Chicago) with approximately 20% travel anticipated to suppliers, tollers and tradeshows. Key responsibilities will include:

SOURCING FUNCTION

• Build and maintain working knowledge of key raw materials, their functionality in our formulations, and the supplier landscape.
• Monitor and communicate feedstock/raw material price trends, market developments, and supply risk; translate insights into actionable impacts for cost, availability, and customer commitments.
• Execute company sourcing strategies to ensure competitive pricing, reliable supply, and continuous improvement.
• Lead supplier negotiations to secure best total value (price, terms, service, quality, risk mitigation).
• Maintain professional supplier relationships that foster trust, integrity, and transparent communication.
• Partner with Commercial to support customer projects and growth initiatives, including new product introductions and competitive bids.
• Work closely with Material Planners to determine sourcing decisions (preferred suppliers, allocations, alternates) and resolve service, delivery, or supply disruption issues.
• Set up and onboard new vendors and ensure required documentation and approvals are complete.
• Code new raw materials, finished products, and suppliers in applicable systems.
• Maintain and update pricing; investigate and resolve invoice discrepancies in coordination with internal stakeholders.
• Conduct supplier meetings and generate call reports capturing key outcomes, commitments, risks, and follow-up actions.
• Ensure all purchasing activities adhere to ethical conduct, and meet EHS, regulatory, local government requirements, as well as internal policies and standards.

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The Requirements

The ideal candidate will work with urgency to complete tasks using all available resources and provide timely responses both internally and externally. He or she will have strong organizational skills with the ability to clearly articulate thoughts and needs. Experience working in Excel(creating spreadsheets and pivot tables) and SAP(preferred). Must be able to get to offices in Chicagoland up to 5 days per week. At least two years of experience in a technical or commercial(sales, sourcing, marketing) setting with eagerness to further develop commercial skills. Must have a willingness to learn from others, take on new challenges and seek out support to solve problems. BS Chemistry, Chem E or a related degree is required. If you are a self-motivated, team player who thrives in a collaborative environment, this is an exceptional opportunity to leverage your entrepreneurial spirit and take your career to the next level.

The compensation package will include an attractive base salary, performance bonus, plus a comprehensive employee benefits program with outstanding long term career progression.