Category Specialist (m/f/d) Chemicals & Packaging Procurement Europe
Join Ingredion, where innovation impacts lives worldwide! Without even realizing it, you’ve experienced our work in your favorite chocolate, your pet’s food, the paper you write on, and your everyday snacks. As a global powerhouse across more than 60 industries, we harness the potential of natural ingredients to transform lives. Whether you’re just starting your career or bringing years of experience, there's a place for you here to make a real difference. Be part of our team that values a wide range of perspectives and is committed to shaping a better world with every product we create.
Ingredion is looking for a Specialist with strong experience in Chemical and Packaging procurement in Hamburg!
The Category Specialist is responsible for two key categories with a combined spend of ~10 € million covering manufacturing sites of Ingredion, KaTech Ingredient Solutions and toll manufacturers where applicable.
This role reports to the Director of Procurement for EMEA.
Core Responsibilities
* Market Analysis – Monitoring of chemicals, enzymes and packaging space, market analysis like supply and demand trends, pricing, creating reports to key internal stakeholders (Procurement Lead Team, Leadership, Supply Chain, Sales).
* Category Management – Use insights from the market analysis to define the medium and long-term sourcing strategy in relevant markets with the support of other functions (Quality, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Supply Chain). Optimize sourcing options, reduce cost and drive value.
* Sourcing of Chemicals & Packaging – Lead sourcing projects from start to finish including demand assessment, requesting quotes, offer evaluation, negotiation, contract drafting & closure, implementation in ERP systems, information of stakeholders, management of internal processes.
* Supplier Relationship Management – Identify, evaluate and establish new suppliers as well as maintaining existing relationships. Manage day-to‑to‑day operations with vendors. Conduct quarterly business reviews together with relevant functions like Supply Chain, Quality, Manufacturing. Conduct supplier audits together with Quality.
* Cooperate with Global Category Management – Support and/or lead global projects in the relevant categories as needed.
* Budgeting – Provide details and work with the FP&A team to prepare the annual budget of your categories as well as regular updates throughout the year.
Qualified candidates will have
* (Bachelor) degree in supply chain, procurement, warehousing and foreign trade, business or comparable experience / education.
* Work experience in the categories chemicals, enzymes and packaging.
* Demonstrated experience in a supplier or customer interfacing role.
* Strong stakeholder management skills, both internally as well as externally.
* German and English fluency, both written and spoken.
Required behaviors and skills
* Growth Mindset – demonstrate a proactive attitude towards learning and CI, embrace challenges, adapt quickly to dynamic situations and pursue opportunities.
* Building Trusted Partnerships – establish and nurture value‑driven relationships both internally and externally. Be credible through transparency, reliability and living Ingredion’s values.
* Attention to Detail – maintain a high level of accuracy in all fields like contract management, cost analysis and working with suppliers. Identify risks and opportunities early and act on them.
* Very Good with Numbers – strong analytical and financial acumen, good working with MS Excel, Power Bi and other ERP systems like SAP.
* Drive for Results – take ownership of sourcing projects and develop your categories in a fast‑paced environment.
Why Join Ingredion
* Flexible Work Arrangements – We value flexibility to support you both professionally and personally within a 37‑hour work week.
* Total Rewards Package – Competitive salary and performance‑based pay recognizing your contributions to our success.
* Generous Vacation Policy – 30 vacation days each year, plus two additional holidays on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
* Comprehensive Benefits & Wellness Support – Access health benefits, EGYM Wellpass Membership, savings plans, and resources for your well‑being, plus perks like a Profi Ticket, free parking, and secure bicycle accommodations.
* Career Growth – Learning, training, and development opportunities.
* Employee Recognition Program – A culture of real‑time appreciation, with personalized recognition rewards globally.
* Employee Referral Program – Refer top talent and earn a bonus if they’re hired.
* Company Pension Plan – Secure your future with financial support for retirement.
* Company Events – Join in on our Christmas party, family day, or Sustainability day for fun and connection.