Global Senior Category Manager - Corn
This position is responsible for leading the Corn Derivatives category (including starches, glucose syrup, maltodextrins, polydextrose, etc.) with an annual spend of approximately $120M. The role is part of the Global Procurement team, reporting directly to the Global Sourcing Category Manager - Agri-Commodities based in Europe.
It is a highly dynamic and visible role, offering the opportunity to lead key strategies and projects to optimize quality, service, cost, innovation, and cash performance across the category.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and implement multi-year category strategies in collaboration with stakeholders (Procurement, R&D, Industrial, Quality, Marketing).
- Design and lead the global strategic roadmap for corn-derived ingredients, aligning sourcing decisions with business priorities, innovation pipeline, and sustainability goals.
- Drive global alignment and governance, ensuring consistency in sourcing practices, contract frameworks, and supplier engagement across regions.
- Manage strategic supplier relationships, ensuring alignment with business goals and consistent performance.
- Lead contract negotiations to secure competitive pricing and long-term value.
- Oversee supplier segmentation and rationalization, ensuring a competitive and risk-resilient supply base.
- Implement supplier risk management frameworks, proactively mitigating geopolitical, financial, and operational risks.
- Continuously analyze global corn markets and macroeconomic factors to anticipate supply risks and guide sourcing strategy.
- Negotiate and implement Master Supply Agreements and support local teams in execution.
- Collaborate with local teams to apply global sourcing strategies and ensure smooth communication.
- Monitor and report on category performance against global procurement KPIs.
- Drive cost savings plans and contribute to annual budget processes through robust commodity assumptions.
- Lead cross-functional projects to optimize cost, quality, and innovation in corn derivative sourcing.
- Promote knowledge sharing and best practices across regions.
- Maintain an active innovation watch and support sustainability initiatives.
- Identify synergies during new acquisitions to accelerate integration and value creation.
Travel Requirement: 10-30% for supplier visits and collaboration with local teams.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in business or related field.
- Minimum 8 years' experience in purchasing or strategic sourcing.
- Experience in manufacturing packaged consumer products and food is highly valued.
- Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
- Ability to integrate stakeholders, manage projects, and build future teams.
- Experience working in multicultural environments and across multiple sites.
- Proven ability to work cross-functionally with diverse stakeholders.
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