Category Manager

Robert Walters UK; England; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking a Category Manager to enhance sourcing strategies within the pharmaceutical sector. This position entails collaborating with cross-functional teams, negotiating contracts, and monitoring supplier performance. Ideal candidates possess significant experience in international procurement, ideally in regulated environments, and familiarity with ERP systems. The role offers a hybrid work model, competitive salary between £70,000 - £80,000, plus bonus and car allowance, fostering a supportive workplace culture.

Benefits

Car allowance

Pension contribution

20% bonus

25 days annual leave

Qualifications

• Significant procurement experience in international pharmaceutical environments.
• Experience leading international procurement projects is essential.
• Knowledge of supplier markets to identify strategic sourcing opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sourcing strategies for contract manufacturing.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with CMOs.
• Monitor supplier performance to ensure quality standards.

Skills

International procurement experience

Contract management

Supplier performance monitoring

Multi-site ERP familiarity

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) adherence

Tools

Oracle

Job description

What You'll Do:

As Category Manager, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s approach to sourcing from contract manufacturers. Your day‑to‑day responsibilities will involve:

• Collaborating closely with the External Manufacturing team to develop and implement robust sourcing strategies for contract manufacturing operations focused on pharmaceutical products.
• Negotiating and managing contracts with contract manufacturing organisations (CMOs).
• Working alongside cross‑functional teams to identify procurement needs and drive efficiency in sourcing activities.
• Monitoring supplier performance rigorously to ensure adherence to quality standards, compliance requirements, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proactively partnering with Product Development and Global Supply site teams, and support functions to ensure delivery of strategic and operational needs.

You will receive a competitive car allowance and pension contribution, up to 20% bonus, and 25 days + stat annual leave entitlements.

What You Bring:

To excel as Category Manager, your background should reflect substantial experience in international procurement within the pharmaceutical sector or similarly regulated industries. Your proven track record includes:

• Significant experience as a procurement professional within an international pharmaceutical or chemically regulated manufacturing environment is essential for success in this role.
• Expertise across multiple product‑related procurement categories within pharmaceuticals or other regulated industries.
• Working familiarity with multi‑site ERP systems such as Oracle.
• Demonstrated experience leading international procurement projects.
• Comprehensive knowledge of supplier markets and environments helps you identify emerging trends and opportunities for strategic sourcing.
• Direct experience adhering to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines.

The Company:

This organisation stands out for its commitment to excellence within the pharmaceutical industry. You will have the ability to work from home 3 days per week once settled in the role, allowing you to balance professional responsibilities with personal commitments. The organisation’s reputation for dependability extends beyond its products, it’s reflected in how it treats employees: with respect, kindness, loyalty, and genuine concern for wellbeing. Whether you’re looking for generous pension contributions or simply want a workplace where your efforts are recognised by knowledgeable peers who care about your success this company delivers on its promise of creating an environment where people flourish together.

How to Apply:

Apply now or for more information, feel free to contact Senior Consultant Jess Vernal on [e-mail] or 07823647177.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates.

About the job:

Contract Type: Permanent

Specialism: Procurement & Supply Chain

Focus: Purchasing / Procurement

Industry: Purchasing and Procurement

Workplace Type: Hybrid

Experience Level: Mid Management

Location: Cheshire

Salary: £70,000 - £80,000 per annum + Bonus, Car Allowance, Pension

Job Reference: 00X785-52D02AAC

Date posted: 26 January 2026

Consultant: Jess Vernal