A journey of innovation and leadership: Luis Arquieta’s career at Ingredion

Meet LUIS ARQUIETA , a dynamic leader with nearly 20 years of experience at Ingredion Incorporated. As the Sr. Manager of R&D and Applications at the Ingredion Idea Labs® in Mexico, Luis is known for his innovative mindset and strategic vision. His exceptional ability to foster cross-functional collaboration ensures that every project not only meets but exceeds company goals and market needs. Join us in this insightful Q&A as we explore Luis's remarkable career journey, highlighting his continuous growth, outstanding leadership, and communication skills, and his knack for driving successful project outcomes through teamwork. 

Q: What inspired you to join Ingredion and how has your career evolved since then?  

A: I had the privilege of joining Ingredion right after earning my degree. What inspired me to join the company as my first job was the seriousness that was demonstrated during my selection process. Each person who interviewed me made me feel like a colleague and not someone who recently graduated college. During my nearly 20 years at this great company, I’ve been in more than five different positions in various areas, always finding great opportunities for learning and development. 

Q: Can you share a memorable project or experience that highlights your personal growth?  

A: Without a doubt, being a key member in the openings of Mexico's two Ingredion Idea Labs®, in 2008 and 2019, has been one of my most memorable projects. I was involved in the evolution of our capabilities at both sites, transforming them into two cutting-edge Innovation Centers. These centers are dedicated to meeting our customers’ needs with a high focus on consumer demands. We have specialized teams in R&D, Applications, Sensory and Culinology. The knowledge and experiences acquired during my years at the company have equipped me with the expertise to oversee both centers successfully. 

Q: How do you feel supported in your professional and personal development?  

A: Ingredion is a company with formally established development plans, allowing me to always find support for my professional and personal growth. Throughout my career, the 70-20-10 guide for professional development has been the best to follow for me. Here is the breakdown:  

• 70% on-the-job experience 

• 20% coaching or mentoring 

• 10% formal training 

I do believe a lot of the success depends on the discipline one decides to put into following their career plan. It’s also important to always make professional development balanced with personal development. If you’re happy, your work and all the effort you invest to have development aligned with your life plan will be a memorable adventure. 

Q: Can you tell us about a time when you felt your work had a significant impact?  

A: Since I had the opportunity to manage work teams, I began dedicating time to creating spaces for students to participate as trainees. This gives them the opportunity to have their first contact with the “real world” outside of school. I encourage them to reach their full potential and help them see what they are capable of, even when they might not realize it themselves. It’s extremely gratifying to see that several of them are now Ingredion employees and that others have successfully joined other companies. I wish all of them success in their professional lives. 

Q: What do you enjoy most about your job and what advice would you give to someone considering a similar path?  

A: What I enjoy most about my job is that it allows me to connect with different areas within Ingredion and other companies. Meeting experts in fields where I don’t have much expertise, embracing diversity as a fundamental piece of innovation, and identifying that working as a team can achieve great challenges is undoubtedly the most gratifying part of the day-to-day. My advice for anyone considering a similar path is to always remain open to dialogue and be willing to listen to differing opinions. It's important to consider all contributions to the project, even if they come from perspectives you don't necessarily agree with. 

Come create a future with us!  

Every day, Ingredion employees bring their skills, creativity and passion together to deliver ingredient solutions that enhance people’s lives. We are innovators who combine the power of technology with the best of nature to delight customers and consumers. Check out our current career opportunities and create the future with people who care. ➡️ https://insde.co/CareersPage