Position Details

The Category Manager - Direct Materials is responsible for managing the procurement strategy and execution for direct materials with experience in Life Science/Healthcare industry. This role focuses on sourcing raw materials, minerals, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and other key components required for manufacturing. The Category Manager will leverage domain expertise to drive cost savings, ensure high-quality supply, and build strong relationships with suppliers. The role will also collaborate with R&D, production, and quality assurance teams to ensure alignment with business goals and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive sourcing strategy for direct materials, focusing on raw materials, APIs, packaging, and other essential components used in the production of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, or healthcare products.
• Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers, ensuring strong partnerships to drive innovation, cost optimization, and supply security. Conduct regular supplier reviews to ensure performance, compliance, and quality.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings through competitive sourcing, supplier negotiations, and alternative sourcing strategies, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and product quality requirements.
• Lead contract negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable terms, focusing on price, quality, delivery timelines, and risk mitigation. Ensure all contracts comply with industry-specific regulations.
• Work closely with internal teams such as R&D, production, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and finance to align procurement strategies with company objectives and ensure seamless material flow.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to supplier performance, material shortages, and regulatory non-compliance. Develop contingency plans to ensure continuous supply of critical materials.
• Conduct ongoing market research to understand industry trends, price fluctuations, and emerging technologies in the animal health, healthcare, and pharmaceutical sectors. Use this intelligence to inform sourcing strategies.
• Manage the qualification and onboarding of new suppliers, ensuring they meet strict industry standards and quality requirements. Conduct supplier audits and ensure adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and regulatory standards.
• Continuously assess and improve procurement processes to enhance efficiency, compliance, and cost savings. Implement best practices in sourcing, negotiation, and supplier management.
• Ensure that sourcing activities align with corporate sustainability initiatives and regulatory requirements. Promote responsible sourcing practices within the supply base.

Key Competencies

Skills

Education & Experience

• (Master’s degree or MBA preferred).
• 7-10 years of procurement, category management, or sourcing experience in the Animal Health, Healthcare, or Pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on direct materials.
• Domain Expertise in Life Science, Healthcare, or Pharmaceuticals
• Deep knowledge of sourcing raw materials, APIs, and production components specific to the pharmaceutical or healthcare sectors.
• Strong understanding of industry-specific regulations (e.g., FDA, GMP, ISO) and quality standards.
• Proven track record of negotiating contracts and delivering cost savings within highly regulated environments.
• Experience managing supplier relationships and conducting supplier audits in the healthcare or pharmaceutical sector.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to use data to drive decision-making.
• Strong proficiency with ERP and procurement systems (JD Edwards and Oracle preferred).
• Professional certifications such as CPSM, CIPS, or PMP are a plus.