Role Overview

The Global Senior Category Strategy Manager leads global category management for an assigned API and Regulatory Starting Material (RSM) portfolio valued at ~$80M USD, while supporting strategic sourcing oversight for ~$350M USD in annual spend. This position drives category strategy, supplier relationship management (SRM), risk mitigation, and contract execution. The role also serves as Deputy to the Global Procurement Head Pharma Europe & API Platform.

Key Responsibilities

Category Strategy & Sourcing: Develop, execute, and continuously refine global strategies for API and RSM portfolios, as well as supporting strategies for other direct raw materials.
Contract & Negotiation Management: Lead negotiations and oversee contract execution in alignment with organizational standards.
Supplier Relationship Management (SRM): Drive SRM programs, establish key supplier KPIs, host performance reviews, and act as a senior escalation point for multi-discipline supplier issues.
Supply Assurance & Risk Management: Implement risk mitigation strategies, support inventory management, resolve quality/service issues, and contribute to financial planning and budgeting.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Site Procurement, Quality, EHS, Operations, and site leadership to support new product launches, transfers, and compliance.

Qualifications & Experience

Education: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or Pharmaceutical Sciences required; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
Experience: 10+ years of strategic category management experience, ideally within the pharmaceutical industry or a technical/manufacturing setting.
Domain Knowledge: Deep understanding of API, RSM, and direct raw material supply chains and sourcing processes.
Track Record: Proven ability to manage complex global projects and interact directly with supplier C-suite executives. Team management experience preferred.
Technical Systems: Proficiency with SAP and Ariba preferred.

Randstad encourage applications from individuals of all ages & backgrounds. Whilst appointments will be made on merit alone candidates must be able to prove their right to work in the UK or the Republic of Ireland (as relevant). Randstad acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment & an employment business for temporary recruitment as defined by the Conduct of Employment Agencies & Employment Business Regulations 2003

global senior category manager.