Senior Manager​/Associate Director - Procurement; m​/f​/d - Chicago

Overview

Mutares SE & Co. KGaA, Munich (), as a listed private equity holding company, acquires medium-sized companies in special situations, which show significant operational improvement potential and are sold again after undergoing a repositioning and stabilization process. Mutares actively supports its portfolio companies with its own investment and operations teams and through strategic add-on acquisitions. The focus is on companies with revenues ranging from USD 120 million to USD 850 million, across various industries.

The aim is to achieve a clear value increase with a focus on sustainable, long-term growth of the portfolio company.

As we continue to grow our footprint in the United States, we are expanding our Operations team. We are seeking an experienced procurement professional with deep expertise in chemicals, feedstock, and intermediates sourcing — someone who brings operational rigor, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a strong drive for measurable improvement. This US-based role requires regular on-site support at portfolio companies nationwide and plays a critical part in strengthening upstream procurement performance.

• Lead the strategic and operational sourcing of key feed stocks and intermediates across oxo‑chemicals, aromatics, carbonyls, and polymer precursors
• Develop and execute sourcing strategies that enhance cost competitiveness, supply security, and supplier diversification
• Conduct market, cost‑structure, and price analyses for both feed stocks and intermediates with commodity‑driven or regulated dynamics
• Negotiate long‑term agreements with producers and distributors, incorporating indexation, volume alignment, and risk‑mitigation mechanisms
• Deliver tangible financial impact through supplier consolidation, process optimization, and improved commercial terms
• Partner closely with the Mutares cross‑functional restructuring team to align decisions and ensure effective execution of procurement initiatives

• Degree in business, economics, engineering, supply chain, or related field
• At least 6 years of chemical‑sector procurement experience, including leading and developing procurement initiatives
• Solid upstream chemical supply‑chain knowledge paired with a track record in complex contract negotiation and cost improvement
• Analytical, hands‑on, and entrepreneurial mindset with strong problem‑solving skills
• Business fluency in English & willingness to travel up to 4 days per week across the US

• Work in a highly motivated, international, committed, and agile team that enjoys working together
• Exciting work environment with varied challenges, strategic influence, and tasks for continuous personal and professional development
• Flat hierarchies, fast decision-making processes, and room for your own ideas
• Regular team events and offsites