Sr. Director Global Operations Digital Partner

Ingredion Incorporated; Westchester (IL); On-site; USD 220,000 - 294,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Total rewards package

Flexible work arrangements

Career growth and development

Employee recognition program

Employee discount program

Job summary

Ingredion Incorporated is seeking a Sr. Director, Global Operations Digital Partner to shape and execute the digital strategy across manufacturing, supply chain, procurement, quality, and EHSS.

You will influence executive leadership, translate priorities into roadmaps, and drive enterprise-scale transformation. The role reports to the Vice President of Digital Technology Solutions and Global Innovation, with 6 direct reports, and requires strong leadership in a global matrix environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, HR, CS; MBA preferred.
• 15+ years in digital strategy, enterprise IT, or transformation.
• Deep understanding of SAP, Blue Yonder, TMS, LIMS; AI/ML, RPA, data analytics.
• Proven track record leading global transformation programs.
• Strong strategic thinking and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and evolve a global Operations digital and IT strategy.
• Lead regional technology strategies with global standardization.
• Advise executives on multi-year transformation roadmaps and investments.
• Partner with Architecture, Cybersecurity, Data & Analytics, and Infra teams.
• Govern the global technology portfolio with value realization.
• Drive cross-functional digital transformation across manufacturing and supply chain.

Skills

Digital strategy

Executive partnership

Portfolio governance

Global collaboration

Vendor management

Digital transformation

Leadership

Financial acumen

Global transformation leadership

Outsourced partner management

Education

Bachelor's degree (business, finance, HR, CS)

Tools

SAP

Blue Yonder Planning

TMS

LIMS

AI/ML

RPA

Data analytics

Job description

About Ingredion: 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.

Location: Westchester, IL Workplace type: Hybrid

The Sr. Director, Global Operations Digital Partner is a top‑tier technology and business leadership role responsible for shaping and executing the global digital strategy for Ingredion’s Operations ecosystem, including Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Procurement, Quality, and EHSS. This role operates as a strategic advisor and thought partner to executive leadership, contributing directly to enterprise and functional business planning. The Sr. Director ensures that current and future information technology opportunities, risks, and capabilities are fully integrated into business strategy discussions and long‑range planning. This leader owns the regional and global Operations digital vision, translates business priorities into actionable technology roadmaps, and drives enterprise‑scale transformation initiatives that deliver sustained competitive advantage. This role will report to the Vice President, Digital Technology Solutions and Global Innovation and have 6 Direct Reports.

What you will do:

Enterprise & Global Digital Strategy Leadership

Develop, own, and continuously evolve a global Operations digital and IT strategy aligned with Ingredion’s enterprise vision, P2W strategy, and long‑term business objectives. Lead region and market‑zone technology strategies while ensuring global standardization, scalability, and architectural integrity. Serve as a core contributor to enterprise business planning at the executive level, ensuring technology implications, investment tradeoffs, and innovation opportunities are incorporated into strategic decisions. Anticipate future technology and operational trends, proactively identifying opportunities and risks that may impact Ingredion’s global Operations strategy.

Executive Business Partnership & Influence

Act as a trusted strategic advisor to Executive Leadership, Global Operations leadership, and Functional Presidents on digital, data, and technology‑enabled transformation. Partner with senior leaders to define multi‑year transformation roadmaps and investment strategies that balance growth, productivity, resilience, compliance, and sustainability. Influence and align stakeholders across regions, functions, and corporate teams in a highly matrixed global environment.

Technology Portfolio & Investment Governance

Provide executive oversight of the global Operations technology portfolio, including platforms such as SAP (MM, PP, WM, QM, SD), Blue Yonder Planning, Transportation Management Systems, GCP AI/ML, Manufacturing Execution & Automation (PLC, Data Historians), and Microsoft 365. Govern a multi‑million‑dollar global portfolio, ensuring strong financial stewardship, value realization, and prioritization aligned with business outcomes. Establish and mature governance models that link technology investments to measurable business value, risk mitigation, and operational excellence.

Global Collaboration & Operating Model Leadership

Ensure tight alignment between global digital strategies and regional execution, balancing global standards with local business needs. Partner with Architecture, Cybersecurity, Data & Analytics, and Infrastructure leaders to ensure secure, resilient, and future‑ready solutions. Strengthen global operating models and ways of working across Operations, Digital Technology Solutions, and external partners.

Strategic Partner & Supplier Management

Establish and manage executive‑level relationships with strategic technology vendors, integrators, and industry partners. Influence vendor roadmaps and ensure supplier strategies align with Ingredion’s long‑term digital vision and operational needs. Oversee contract strategy, commercial negotiations, and performance management to optimize cost, quality, and innovation outcomes.

Digital Transformation & Innovation

Lead large‑scale, cross‑functional digital transformation initiatives spanning global Manufacturing and Supply Chain operations. Champion the adoption of advanced technologies such as AI/ML, advanced analytics, automation, RPA, and digital employee experiences to drive productivity, quality, safety, and decision intelligence. Sponsor innovation pipelines, proofs‑of‑concept, and pilots, scaling successful initiatives into enterprise solutions.

Performance Management & Value Realization

Define and govern enterprise‑level KPIs to measure the effectiveness, adoption, and financial impact of digital initiatives. Ensure transparent reporting of progress, value realization, and risks to executive stakeholders. Drive a continuous‑improvement mindset focused on outcomes, agility, and measurable business results.

Talent, Leadership & Organization Development

Lead and develop a high‑performing global organization of Digital Business Partners, Business Analysts, and Solution Architects. Build future‑ready capabilities across digital, data, and business domains. Mentor senior leaders and emerging talent, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration.

What you will bring:

• Bachelor's degree in business, finance, human resources, computer science, or a related field; advanced degree (e.g., MBA) preferred.
• 15+ years of progressive leadership experience in digital strategy, enterprise IT, or technology‑enabled transformation, preferably in manufacturing, supply chain, or industrial environments.
• Deep understanding of digital technologies and platforms including SAP, Blue Yonder Planning, TMS, LIMS, and a good understanding of manufacturing systems, AI/ML, RPA, and data analytics.
• Proven experience driving digital transformation initiatives.
• Proven track record of leading global, multi‑year transformation programs with measurable business outcomes.
• Strong strategic thinking, business acumen, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to translate technology trends and opportunities into actionable business strategies and outcomes.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus across all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated ability to operate at the executive and board‑adjacent level, influencing strategy and investment decisions.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully managing complex technology portfolios, driving innovation, and delivering measurable business value.
• Deep expertise across enterprise platforms (SAP, planning systems, manufacturing systems), data & analytics, and emerging digital technologies.
• Experience working in a global environment, with the ability to navigate cultural differences and collaborate effectively with diverse teams across geographies.
• Results‑oriented mindset, with a focus on continuous improvement, agility, and delivering tangible business results.
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing large technology portfolios and investment governance.
• Minimum of 10 - 15 years’ experience leading global transformation initiatives and working with outsourced partners.

Who you are:

• Experience working in a matrixed environment, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively for resources that are not in direct control of this role.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain Digital Technology concepts and technologies to business leaders.
• Handle multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Ability and willingness to travel.

Why Join Ingredion?

• Total Rewards Package – Competitive salary and performance-based pay recognizing your contributions to our success
• Comprehensive Benefits & Wellness Support – Health, long-term savings, and resources for your physical, mental, and emotional well‑being
• Flexible Work Arrangements– We value flexibility to support you both professionally and personally
• Career Growth – Learning, training, and development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program – A culture of real‑time appreciation, with personalized recognition rewards globally
• Employee Discount Program – Provides exclusive discounts on everyday products, services, and travel

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. Ingredion seeks to provide a work environment that is free from harassment and discrimination. We will not tolerate any form of discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, handicap or disability—mental or physical—marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability resulting from military service, or any other classification protected by law (“protected classifications”). We are committed to establishing and maintaining a work environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Ingredion provides accommodations to job applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If a job applicant requires an accommodation during the application process or through the selection process, we will work with the applicant to meet the job applicant's accommodation needs.

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: Yes, Within Country

Pay Range: $220,200.00-$293,600.00 Annual

Incentive Compensation: As a part of the total compensation package, this role may be eligible for the Ingredion Annual Incentive Plan or a role‑specific commission/bonus.

Benefits: Full-time roles are eligible for our comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental and vision coverage as well as a 401(k) plan with an competitive company match.

Ingredion is a leading global, plant‑based ingredients solutions company. We make sweeteners, starches, nutrition ingredients and biomaterials that are used by customers in everyday products from foods and beverages to paper and pharmaceuticals. At Ingredion, we embrace possibilities and inspire each other to think big. Together, we are reimagining how we can make life better through our differentiated ingredients and innovative solutions. We share an inspiring purpose — to make life better, for our colleagues, our customers, our communities, and the world. We belong to a culture of bold innovators, of people who believe that their skills, creativity, and passion can deliver solutions that can enhance people’s lives. We create what's next, transforming our imagination into innovation. We have a welcoming and collaborative environment to build and grow a career in a multinational company. Here, everyone can be their authentic selves and be part of a community of talented and caring people, interacting with professionals around the world, made up of varied backgrounds, cultures and industries. We are encouraged to think differently and innovate through collaboration and experimentation. We are constantly imagining new ways to bring value to our customers, through new ingredients, solutions, and ways of working.