Category Manager
A leading organisation within the healthcare and manufacturing industry is seeking an experienced Category Manager to join their collaborative and forward-thinking team.
Key Responsibilities:
* Supplier Management: Build and maintain strategic relationships with suppliers to achieve operational excellence. Monitor and enhance performance metrics, including service levels, cost, quality, and working capital, through robust contractual agreements, scorecards, and periodic reviews.
* Strategic Leadership: Drive solutions for intricate challenges such as dual sourcing, supplier negotiation, category strategy, and external sourcing. Lead initiatives to optimise supplier management and sourcing strategies.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration: Engage with key departments, including Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Finance, to resolve issues and execute projects effectively. Collaborate closely with internal and external stakeholders within the healthcare and manufacturing ecosystem.
* Continuous Improvement: Champion supply chain improvements to boost agility, reduce lead times, and minimise costs. Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to enhance supply chain resilience.
* Procurement and Contracting: Oversee RFP/RFQ processes, lead contract negotiations, and perform benchmarking activities. Deliver insightful decisions on outsourcing, total cost analysis, and supply chain mapping.
* Innovation and Compliance: Support New Product Introduction initiatives, ensuring alignment with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) standards and regulatory compliance. Actively participate in compliance projects to uphold quality and operational standards.
Key Skills and Experience:
* Experience: Minimum of 7 years in third-party supply chain management, with a proven ability to manage and develop supplier relationships. Extensive experience in contract negotiation and sourcing, particularly with contract manufacturers.
* Education: A bachelor's degree in Business, Procurement, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is essential.
* Skills and Competencies: Exceptional leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to resolve complex supply chain challenges. Strong financial acumen with expertise in supply chain finance, GMP practices, product validation, and regulatory requirements. Proficiency in ERP/ASCP systems (SAP preferred) and Quality Systems (FDA/ISO) in a regulated environment. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across all organisational levels.
* Travel Requirements: Up to 10% domestic or international travel.