Category Leader - Decature, IL

Archer Daniels Midland•Decatur, IL

About The Position

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.

Requirements

Business/Technology 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
Interpersonal Skills
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
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
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check

Nice To Haves

MBA is preferred.
Certified Professional of Supply Management (CPSM) certification a plus.

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.

Benefits

In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
Physical wellness – medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
Financial wellness – flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers’ compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
Mental and social wellness – Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Additional benefits include:
Paid time off including paid holidays.
Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
Tuition assistance.
Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.