R&D Category Strategy Lead

AbbVie; Illinois; On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

AbbVie in Illinois seeks a Manager, Category Management to partner with R&D stakeholders and lead category strategies that align with research priorities. You will drive structured sourcing, manage supplier relationships, and deliver measurable value beyond cost, including speed, quality, and risk mitigation.

You will mentor junior analysts, collaborate across functions, and ensure ESG considerations are embedded in sourcing decisions.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of procurement or category management experience.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred.
• Experience supporting R&D, scientific, or technical teams in pharma or life sciences.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead multi-year category strategies aligned with R&D priorities.
• Execute sourcing programs, supplier negotiations, and contract execution.
• Build and manage supplier relationships to enable innovation and value.
• Integrate ESG and sustainability considerations into supplier selection.
• Mentor analysts and develop category capability across the team.

Skills

Category management

Strategic sourcing

Stakeholder influence

Financial analysis

Negotiation

Cross-functional leadership

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree

MBA or equivalent advanced degree

Job description

AbbVie in Illinois seeks a Manager, Category Management to partner with R&D stakeholders and lead category strategies that align with research priorities. You will drive structured sourcing, manage supplier relationships, and deliver measurable value beyond cost, including speed, quality, and risk mitigation.

You will mentor junior analysts, collaborate across functions, and ensure ESG considerations are embedded in sourcing decisions.