Firms in the process industries manipulate materials properties to produce upgraded raw materials for applications and products upstream in a supply chain. About 25% of the most research intensive firms in the world belong to the process industries, so proper management of raw materials is a key concern for many firms. This article explores the concept of “raw materials management”. By studying the current world leader in powder metallurgy, the Höganäs Corporation, the article describes the external and internal factors impacting how raw materials are managed, and how raw material issues affect different aspects of firm performance. Managerial implications are presented elaborating three key-areas that firms should deal with when developing a strategic approach to raw materials management.