Strategic Sourcing Lead - Key Suppliers

Merck Life Science; Guyancourt; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck Life Science in Guyancourt, France, seeks a Sourcing Manager to lead end-to-end strategic sourcing for key suppliers, translating category strategies into actionable plans supporting business objectives.

You will partner with Category Managers to identify opportunities, negotiate favorable terms, and manage strategic supplier relationships to drive growth and innovation while ensuring compliance and sustainability across plants.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Procurement or Life Sciences.
• 5+ years of experience in Strategic Sourcing, Category Management or Procurement within Life Sciences.
• Experience in a large multinational organization within Life Science or Medical Device sectors, ideally in a global, matrix environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage end-to-end sourcing, including supplier identification, negotiations, qualification, and performance management.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Proven leadership capabilities and experience directing cross-functional sourcing initiatives.
• Proactive, innovative mindset with a drive for continuous improvement and strategic thinking.
• Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills with data-driven decision making.
• Proficiency in MS Office and ERP systems (e.g., SAP/Oracle), plus project management knowledge.
• Fluent in French and English with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end strategic sourcing process for key strategic suppliers.
• Collaborate with Category Managers to identify opportunities and negotiate favorable terms.
• Qualify and manage strategic supplier relationships to drive growth and innovation.
• Oversee supplier identification, performance management, and issue resolution to ensure high-quality, compliant outcomes.
• Develop and implement category strategies aligned with manufacturing and business goals, balancing speed and rigor.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Procurement or Life Sciences

Tools

MS Office

ERP systems (SAP/Oracle)

Job description

Merck Life Science in Guyancourt, France, seeks a Sourcing Manager to lead end-to-end strategic sourcing for key suppliers, translating category strategies into actionable plans supporting business objectives.

You will partner with Category Managers to identify opportunities, negotiate favorable terms, and manage strategic supplier relationships to drive growth and innovation while ensuring compliance and sustainability across plants.