Category Leader - Decature, IL

Job Description

Category Leader, Procurement- Packaging -  Chicago IL, Decatur, IL or Erlanger, KY
This is an exempt level position.

Position Summary:
The Packaging Category Leader is responsible for developing and executing sourcing strategies, supplier performance programs, and cost optimization initiatives across all packaging categories including drums, IBC’s, large and small plastic rigid packaging, and FIBC’s, as assigned. This role drives stakeholder alignment, manages key supplier relationships, and ensures compliance with internal policies and operational requirements. The ideal candidate combines deep market knowledge with strong procurement, contract negotiation, and strategic leadership skills.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead regional sourcing strategies for key packaging categories, drums, ibc’s fibc’s and small rigid plastic.
• Act as a single point of accountability for the AS&O and Human Nutrition Business Units in North America.
• Collaborate closely with operations, finance, safety, HR, and compliance teams to align procurement strategies with business needs.
• Manage total cost of ownership (TCO) through negotiation, demand management, and process improvement initiatives.
• Analyze supplier responses and make data-driven sourcing recommendations; serve as the prime negotiator on pricing, terms, service, and other business requirements.
• Support the development and execution of digital procurement solutions, including contractor timekeeping systems and e-sourcing platforms.
• Evaluate market intelligence, historical spend data, and business goals to identify sourcing opportunities and mitigate risks.
• Oversee supplier performance management through KPIs, scorecards, quarterly business reviews, and corrective action planning.
• Ensure compliance with legal, safety, and operational standards through structured contractor onboarding and governance processes.
• Develop and maintain a robust contractual framework in collaboration with Legal, including service-level agreements and KPIs.
• Establish a communication and stakeholder engagement plan to ensure visibility into sourcing initiatives and business value delivered.
• Act as a procurement change agent, promoting Procurement’s role as a value-adding business partner.

• Understanding paper, poly and steel markets in north America  
• Commercial skills and familiarity with contract law
• Competent in financial analysis
• Customer solutions focused
• Proven negotiations skills
• Skilled in cost/benefit analysis and alternative decision making
• Technology adept (eProcurement and P2P systems, standard Office Suite such as Excel, Word, and Power Point)
• Capacity to develop advanced strategies
• Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks efficiently and thoroughly
• Global awareness (culture, currencies, geography, political)
• Continuous Improvement

• Communications (oral/written)
• Ability to influence and lead outcome
• Forward, visionary thinker
• Skilled at relationship management, with internal and external partners
• Team oriented

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or related field preferred or equivalent experience
• MBA is preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years professional work experience with three (3) years in purchasing for global companies
• In-depth understanding of various contracting models is strongly desired 
• Certified Professional of Supply Management (CPSM) certification a plus.

Before applying for an exempt, non-exempt or hourly job opportunity, you are expected to initiate a discussion and share your intentions with your supervisor.  * If you’ve been in your current position for more than 18 months, supervisor approval is not required.  * If you’ve been in your current position for less than 18 months, verbal supervisor approval is required.  
​Hiring Manager- Charles Hayes   ​
Recruiter- Sapna Upadhyay 

City

Decatur

State

IL - Illinois

Location Country

United States

About ADM

At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We’re a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world’s premier agricultural