One of our global clients within the life sciences sector is seeking an experienced Category Manager to join its Global Procurement function, supporting Transport & Distribution activities across Commercial and Clinical operations.
This role plays a critical part in ensuring patient supply continuity through effective sourcing strategies, strong supplier partnerships, and commercial excellence across a defined procurement portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and execute end-to-end sourcing strategies for a defined Transport & Distribution spend area, aligned with overarching category objectives.
* Lead strategic sourcing initiatives, including RFPs and value creation projects, to improve quality, secure supply, manage risk, and deliver sustainable cost benefits.
* Manage the supplier lifecycle, from market intelligence and selection through contract negotiation and ongoing performance management.
* Act as a commercial lead, driving negotiations and developing robust master agreements that deliver best value and supply resilience.
* Provide market and supplier insights, including benchmarking, competitive landscape analysis, and identification of emerging partners and technologies.
* Collaborate cross-functionally with stakeholders across Supply Chain, Quality, Regulatory, Finance, Legal, and Sustainability to implement sourcing strategies and transition plans.
* Build strong strategic supplier relationships to support long-term innovation, quality, delivery, and cost objectives.
* Ensure risk management frameworks are applied, including financial, supply, and compliance risks, with appropriate mitigation embedded into contracts where required.
* Ensure full compliance with GxP regulations, internal policies, and ethical standards.
Required Experience & Capabilities
* Proven experience in category management or strategic sourcing, ideally within supply chain, logistics, or patient supply–related environments.
* Strong understanding of regulated environments and the impact of procurement decisions on supply continuity.
* Demonstrated ability to develop and deliver category strategies aligned with business objectives.
* Solid experience in contracting, including negotiation, drafting, and lifecycle management of complex agreements.
* Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across global, cross-functional teams.
* Analytical mindset with the ability to use data and market intelligence to inform decisions and manage risk.
* Experience managing supplier relationships and driving value through partnerships.
* Awareness of global market dynamics, including geopolitical, economic, and sustainability considerations.
* Strong project management, prioritization, and change management capabilities.
* High ethical standards and a commitment to compliance and responsible sourcing.
* Fluent English (written and spoken).
Why Consider This Role
* Opportunity to work in a globally impactful role with direct influence on patient supply.
* Exposure to senior stakeholders and strategic suppliers.
* Ability to shape sourcing strategies within a complex, international environment.
* Strong emphasis on quality, resilience, sustainability, and innovation.
We are an equal opportunities Recruitment Business and Agency. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.