Category Lead

JR United Kingdom; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading medical technology company is seeking a Strategic Category Lead to oversee sourcing and vendor management for clinical trial materials. This senior role requires a strategic thinker with a strong procurement background in pharma or biotech, offering a competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• Substantial industry experience in procurement or sourcing.
• Experience in category management within CMC/Manufacturing.
• Knowledge of GMP and supplier compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing and supplier selection for R&D CDMOs.
• Guide end-to-end contract lifecycle management.
• Identify supplier gaps and build a best-in-class supplier base.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Negotiation

Supplier management

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

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Job Title: Strategic Category Lead, Contract Development & Manufacturing

Job Type: Full-time, permanent position

Locations: Buckinghamshire, UK (hybrid)

Remuneration: Up to £80,000 + benefits

Are 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 objectives
• Guide end-to-end contract lifecycle management, including negotiation, vendor onboarding, and compliance oversight
• Act as a key interface between internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure timely and compliant delivery of clinical trial materials
• Identify supplier gaps and proactively build a best-in-class supplier base across regions
• Contribute to global initiatives and implement continuous process improvements

Who You Are:

• A strategic thinker with a strong background in procurement, sourcing, or supplier management—ideally within pharma or biotech
• Experienced in managing relationships with CDMOs or CMOs
• Skilled in negotiating complex contracts, navigating regulatory frameworks, and collaborating with cross-functional teams
• Confident in managing multiple stakeholders and influencing decisions at all levels
• A strong communicator with a commercial mindset and deep understanding of R&D processes

Qualifications Snapshot:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, with substantial industry experience
• Proven success in category management or strategic sourcing within CMC/Manufacturing category
• Solid knowledge of GMP, supplier compliance, and pharmaceutical development cycles
• Experience working within a preclinical or CRO environment.
• Experience in pharmaceutical research operations, compliance, clinical study execution and supplier management.
• Project management and leadership capabilities
• Willingness 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.