Solugen
14549 Minetta St., Houston TX 77035
Position:
Head of Sourcing/Lead Buyer
About Solugen:
Solugen is a groundbreaking technology company on a bold mission to decarbonize the physical world. At the heart of our innovation is the world’s first sustainable molecule factory—the Bioforge. This unique manufacturing platform uses a chemienzymatic process to convert plant-derived substances into essential materials that have historically been made from fossil fuels—all with minimal emissions and no hazardous waste. A highly scalable and localized alternative to conventional approaches, the Bioforge enables us to produce a range of high-performance, cost-competitive, and sustainable solutions to meet the diverse needs of our customers.
Ready to shape the future? Join us.
Are you passionate about sustainable solutions and combating climate change? We're always on the lookout for dynamic individuals who blend passion with adaptability. You thrive in an environment where curiosity propels you, questions are celebrated, and insights power your work. As a self-starter, you’ll embrace the pace and uncertainty of startup culture– that’s where the best ideas flourish. At our core, we prioritize safety above all, value respect for others, and consider creative problem-solving a superpower.
The Role:
Reporting to the Head of Supply Chain, this individual will lead and oversee the Direct Materials Souring Strategy at Solugen, as well as manage the sourcing and procurement of raw materials and specialty chemicals critical to Solugen’s operations. This role is critical in securing consistent supply and Year over Year (YoY) cost reductions across our raw materials portfolio. As both a tactical operator and strategic thinker, the Head of Sourcing/Lead Buyer will be responsible for managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, driving cost savings, and ensuring that procurement processes align with Solugen’s business objectives. This position will require close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including Planning, Manufacturing and Sales, to support innovation and operational excellence.
Expectations:
• Lead the sourcing and procurement strategy for raw materials and specialty chemicals, ensuring alignment with business needs and cost-efficiency.
• Develop robust supplier relationships and negotiate contracts to secure favorable terms, pricing, and long-term partnerships.
• Identify opportunities to drive cost savings and operational efficiencies through strategic sourcing initiatives and supplier optimization.
• Build and maintain a comprehensive market analysis for critical raw materials, understanding pricing trends, supply risks, and competitive dynamics.
• Collaborate with Planning, Manufacturing and Sales to align material specifications with operational requirements and product innovation goals.
• Develop should-cost models and commodity-level strategies to support financial planning and supplier negotiations.
• Monitor supplier performance, ensuring on-time delivery, quality standards, and adherence to contractual obligations.
• Mitigate raw materials risks by developing contingency plans and diversifying the supplier base where appropriate.
• Establish and track procurement metrics to measure and improve performance, including cost savings, supplier performance, and lead times.
• All other duties necessary to execute a best-in-class sourcing function.
Necessary Skills:
• At least eight (8) years of experience in procurement or sourcing, with at least three (3) years of experience buying raw materials and specialty chemicals.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills, with a proven track record of driving cost savings and building strategic supplier relationships.
• In-depth knowledge of raw material markets, pricing mechanisms, and supply chain dynamics.
• Proficiency in data analysis and advanced Excel skills for cost modeling and reporting.
• Experience in a fast-paced environment, ideally in specialty chemicals, high-tech manufacturing, or a similar industry.
• Strong leadership and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional teams and drive results.
• Master’s degree or higher in supply chain, chemical engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems and implement process improvements.
• Self-motivated and adaptable, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for managing transactional and strategic initiatives.
• Fluency in English.
Company Specific:
- Ask a lot of questions, be curious, and have insights into your work
- Be nimble, embrace the speed and ambiguity of startup culture.
- A passion for green chemistry and fighting climate change.
- Ability to self-manage and set your own priorities and schedule.
- Be comfortable working in multiple roles.
- Emphasize safety above all else.
- Respect for others.
- Creative problem solving.
- Willingness to learn and research new engineering/science concepts.