Reporting to the Global Procurement Leader, The Head of Direct Category Management plays a mission-critical and highly specialized role in effectively managing and optimizing Corteva's Direct spend and will be charged with enhancing company performance through the effective management of Corteva’s raw materials, intermediates, active ingredients, packaging and related outsourcing services and logistics in support of the overall business objectives. Leads and develops a global team of procurement professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. Works closely with business stakeholders to translate business requirements into sound and effective sourcing strategies and how to operationalize them in one or more of these areas: sourcing & purchasing, negotiation, contract management. And works with functional peers on supplier relationship management, procurement planning, quality assurance, and compliance and risk management.

Key Priorities and Initiatives related to the role

• Develop and enhance category management, sourcing strategies that improve the competitive position of Corteva  ​
• Cost Management: Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements through market analysis and strategic sourcing. ​Negotiate, prepare and execute procurement agreements that minimize unintended outcomes to Corteva
• Team Leadership: Champions, coaches and mentors a global team of procurement professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture driven by operational excellence in constant pursuit of what is possible.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Develop strong partnership with business, integrated operations (supply chain and operations) and work closely with other departments, such as finance, to understand and analyze needs, identify supply alternatives and select reliable and cost optimized suppliers to deliver high quality and best in class cost for products.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all procurement activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies, while managing risks associated with global supply chains.​
• Develops and drive robust performance metrics and organizational expertise recognized as fit-for-purpose.

Key Skills, Experience, Attributes & Competencies

• Functional depth and expertise around strategic sourcing in a chemical context; preferably for a Fortune 500 chemical or pharmaceutical company.
• Business acumen and detailed orientation
• Proven track record of leadership in a regional or global context.​
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.
• Creative, innovative, problem-solver and strategic​
• Proven change management skills
• Natural leader with strong executive presence 
• Demonstrated ability to implement scaled transformations across a functional or operational landscape.​

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in a technical field is highly recommended (engineering, chemical or agro sciences preferred)
• An MBA or other advanced degree is desirable (Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or Finance.​)

• At least 15 years' experience in procurement, supply chain management, or a related field, with a proven track record of leadership in a complex, global business. Agriculture industry experience is highly preferred.

Technical Expertise

• Sourcing and purchasing foundational background.​
• Strong Project Management foundation.​
• Preferred one or more certifications: Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM); Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).​
• Continuous Improvement

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Benefits – How We’ll Support You:

• Numerous development opportunities offered to build your skills

• Be part of a company with a higher purpose and contribute to making the world a better place

• Health benefits for you and your family on your first day of employment

• Four weeks of paid time off and two weeks of well-being pay per year, plus paid holidays

• Excellent parental leave which includes a minimum of 16 weeks for mother and father

• Future planning with our competitive retirement savings plan and tuition reimbursement program

• Learn more about our total rewards package here - Corteva Benefits

• Check out life at Corteva! www.linkedin.com/company/corteva/life

Are you a good match? Apply today! We seek applicants from all backgrounds to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team.

Corteva Agriscience is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to embracing our differences to enrich lives, advance innovation, and boost company performance. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, military or veteran status, pregnancy related conditions (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), disability or any other protected status in accordance with federal, state, or local laws.