Lead, Purchasing Execution USCAN

This role intends to combine transactional duties with strategic planning and leadership tasks to drive the procurement function forward. This role carries full accountability for operational execution, escalation management, and continuous improvement within assigned purchasing categories, acting as both a functional team leader and category owner.

Transactional tasks:

• Process Purchase Orders for MRP-generated, Non-MRP generated, services, CapEx, packaging and chemicals Purchase Requisitions. This may or may not include sourcing activities and/or managing critical purchases.
• Work to meet stablished KPI targets and getting involved on how to track, calculate, and report them.
• Create new Purchasing Information Records as well as maintain and update Purchasing Information records as directed. This may include massive requests.
• Perform and maintain centralized Source List in key Procurement systems. This may include massive requests.
• Conduct and field communications with suppliers for designated Purchase Orders to follow up for timely deliveries. This includes massive PO closure.
• Maintain supplier contact information updated in systems and stablish contact with VM to update vendor information when needed.
• Ensure key purchasing policies are adhered to.
• Liaise with Procurement Operations to resolve issues, risks, and dependencies related to Purchase Requisitions, Purchase Orders, Vendor Communications, and/or Vendor Invoices
• Work with AP to resolve issues related to invoices discrepancies.
• Liaise with other buyers to share best practices, identify process opportunities, and share resources.

Leadership and strategic tasks:

• Act as a recognized team leader, setting the standard for execution quality, policy compliance, and collaboration across Purchasing and Procurement Operations.
• Serve as the first point of escalation for buyers and stakeholders, resolving complex operational, supplier, or system‑related issues before management involvement is required.
• Own and oversee assigned purchasing categories end‑to‑end, ensuring continuity of supply, adherence to sourcing strategies, and alignment with Procurement objectives.
• Monitor and proactively manage category performance, including service levels, open risks, supplier issues, and process deviations, escalating only when necessary with clear recommendations.
• Provide day‑to‑day guidance and functional leadership to buyers, supporting prioritization, decision‑making, and resolution of escalations related to assigned categories
• Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects and initiatives within the purchasing team, driving standardization, efficiency, and execution excellence.
• Analyze operational and performance data to proactively identify issues, trends, and opportunities for improvement, proposing and supporting actionable solutions.
• Act as a recognized functional leader within the team, setting the standard for purchasing execution, policy compliance, and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Mentor and guide peers, providing hands‑on support and best‑practice coaching across all purchasing processes and job‑related functions.

Qualified candidates will have:

• Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or related discipline
• Fluent English (written and spoken)
• 5 years of procurement experience in a manufacturing environment and a significant leadership experience.
• Knowledgeable and proficient in Microsoft Office suite.
• SAP experience is a must.
• Knowledge of SAP Ariba a plus but not required.
• Be customer service driven and understand the cultural and economic nuances of the region.
• Exhibit strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Capacity to solve problems through creative, innovative solutions, and challenge traditional methods of accomplishing tasks.
• Ability to communicate with a high degree of credibility internally across functional lines and externally with suppliers.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to work in a team environment, build consensus and foster positive relationships.
• Ability to inspire and lead a team towards achieving common goals.
• Adapt and remain flexible in dealing with different viewpoints and site differences. Effectively manage ambiguity.
• Be detail-oriented and measurement-driven.
• Ability to prioritize and manage competing requests and priorities.
• Prior experience in a shared services environment is a plus.
• Ability to plan, execute, and oversee projects to improve procurement processes and systems.
• Knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to identify inefficiencies and implement process improvements is a plus.
• Expertise in managing change within the organization, ensuring smooth transitions and buy-in from stakeholders.
• Proficiency in analyzing procurement data to identify trends, opportunities for improvement.

Ingredion uses AI-enabled tools to support parts of the recruitment process, including resume screening and interview scheduling. These tools help match candidate skills to job requirements and streamline communication. All AI-assisted decisions are reviewed by our Talent Acquisition team to ensure fairness and compliance with applicable laws. By applying, you acknowledge that AI may be used to support your application journey.

Relocation Available:

No