Category Lead

Job Title: Strategic Category Lead, Contract Development & ManufacturingJob Type: Full-time, permanent positionLocations: Buckinghamshire, UK (hybrid)Remuneration: Up to £80,000 + benefitsAre you ready to lead supplier strategy for one of the world’s most recognized healthcare innovators? A leading medical technology company is looking for a Strategic Category Lead to join their pharmaceutical diagnostic division and take ownership of sourcing and vendor management activities critical to the development of life-saving pharmaceuticals.The Opportunity:In this senior-level role, you'll play a pivotal part in the global R&D procurement function, focusing on sourcing and supplier partnerships for clinical trial materials across drug substance and drug product development. You'll be embedded within a high-performing sourcing team and work cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and Product Management leaders.What You’ll Do:Lead strategic sourcing and supplier selection for R&D Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs)Develop category strategies that align with long-term clinical and commercial objectivesGuide end-to-end contract lifecycle management, including negotiation, vendor onboarding, and compliance oversightAct as a key interface between internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure timely and compliant delivery of clinical trial materialsIdentify supplier gaps and proactively build a best-in-class supplier base across regionsContribute to global initiatives and implement continuous process improvementsWho You Are:A strategic thinker with a strong background in procurement, sourcing, or supplier management—ideally within pharma or biotechExperienced in managing relationships with CDMOs or CMOsSkilled in negotiating complex contracts, navigating regulatory frameworks, and collaborating with cross-functional teamsConfident in managing multiple stakeholders and influencing decisions at all levelsA strong communicator with a commercial mindset and deep understanding of R&D processesQualifications Snapshot:Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, with substantial industry experienceProven success in category management or strategic sourcing within CMC/Manufacturing categorySolid knowledge of GMP, supplier compliance, and pharmaceutical development cyclesExperience working within a preclinical or CRO environment.Experience in pharmaceutical research operations, compliance, clinical study execution and supplier management.Project management and leadership capabilitiesWillingness to travel internationally (approx. 15%)Please apply within.Please note you must hold the FULL right to work in the locations provided, this role does not provide job sponsorship or relocation.Disclaimer: Due to an influx of applications, not every application can be provided feedback.

Created: 2025-08-01