Strategic Sourcing Category Lead

As the largest pureplay adhesives company in the world, H.B. Fuller’s (NYSE: FUL) innovative, functional coatings, adhesives and sealants enhance the quality, safety and performance of products people use every day. Founded in 1887, with 2024 revenue of $3.6 billion, our mission to Connect What Matters is brought to life by more than 7,500 global team members who collaborate with customers across more than 30 market segments in over 140 countries to develop highly specified solutions that enable customers to bring world-changing innovations to their end markets. Learn more at www.hbfuller.com.

Position Overview

The Category Lead is responsible for executing sourcing and category management activities that support the company’s cost, supply, and operational objectives. This role works closely with cross‑functional stakeholders and suppliers to support category strategies, drive sourcing initiatives, and ensure reliable supply across assigned areas. The position combines day‑to‑day sourcing execution with analytical and commercial insight, including supplier selection, cost analysis, and performance management. The Category Lead contributes to sourcing decisions, supports the development and execution of category plans, and helps identify opportunities to improve cost, reduce risk, and enhance supplier performance. This role requires strong collaboration across functions such as Operations, Engineering, and Finance, as well as the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining discipline in execution. It also provides exposure to a range of categories and business needs, offering a solid foundation for growth within sourcing and category management.

Primary Responsibilities

Support day‑to‑day category management activities while ensuring alignment with business needs, cost objectives, and supply continuity

Lead and execute sourcing activities for select categories, including RFQs, supplier evaluation, and negotiations to deliver optimal total value

Partner closely with sourcing leadership and cross‑functional stakeholders to execute priorities and support continuous improvement initiatives

Analyze sourcing, pricing, and supplier data to generate insights that inform decision‑making and identify opportunities for cost savings and risk mitigation

Track performance metrics and support reporting to monitor category effectiveness and supplier performance

Maintain accurate pricing, contracts, and supplier information within ERP and sourcing systems to ensure data integrity and operational efficiency

Support resolution of invoice discrepancies and payment‑related issues in collaboration with internal teams and suppliers

Identify opportunities to improve sourcing processes, tools, and workflows, and contribute to initiatives that drive operational excellence

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required (Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field preferred)

Proficiency in data analysis, problem solving, written communication, and stakeholder partnership

Familiarity with ERP systems, procurement tools, or related business systems

Exposure to sourcing, supplier coordination, data analysis, or operational support activities

Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities

Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment

Self‑motivated, adaptable, and eager to learn, with a continuous improvement mindset

1–3 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, or a related field

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting sourcing initiatives such as RFQs, supplier evaluation, or commercial discussions

Exposure to manufacturing, industrial, or operational environments

Understanding of cost drivers and basic total cost of ownership concepts

Experience working cross‑functionally with Operations, Engineering, Finance, or similar teams

Familiarity with ERP, S&OP, or procurement/payment systems

Additional language capability (e.g., Spanish)

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Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, and geographic location.

The salary for this role is $75,000-$89,000.

In addition to your salary, H.B. Fuller offers employees a competitive total rewards package including comprehensive benefits, incentive and recognitions programs, health & wellness benefits, 401K contributions, paid time off and paid holidays. Eligibility may vary.

H.B. Fuller does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing firms. To conduct business with H.B. Fuller, a written service agreement must be executed by Human Resources prior to submitting any information relating to a potential candidate. Without a signed service agreement, H.B. Fuller shall not be obligated for payment of any fee or compensation.