Strategic Sourcing Lead (R&D Categories)

Job Responsibilities

Category Strategy Development* Develop and implement global category strategies for assigned R&D categories.* Continuously evaluate market dynamics, supplier landscape, technology trends, and cost drivers.* Build category roadmaps aligned with business priorities and long-term procurement objectives.* Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, standardization, and cost optimization.Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Selection* Lead end-to-end sourcing activities including:Demand analysisRFx managementSupplier evaluationCommercial negotiationContract award* Develop sourcing recommendations balancing cost, quality, innovation, and supply continuity.* Establish strategic supplier partnerships supporting R&D innovation and business growth.Stakeholder Management* Act as the primary procurement business partner for R&D stakeholders.* Understand scientific and technical requirements and translate them into sourcing strategies.* Facilitate alignment between procurement objectives and research priorities.* Provide procurement expertise and market intelligence to support decision-making.Supplier Relationship Management* Manage key supplier relationships and business reviews.* Monitor supplier performance through KPIs and SLAs.* Drive supplier development and continuous improvement initiatives.* Collaborate with suppliers to identify innovation and process enhancement opportunities.Cost Optimization & Value Creation* Deliver annual savings and value-generation targets.* Apply TCO methodologies in sourcing decisions.* Identify opportunities for process efficiency, demand management, and specification optimization.* Support budgeting and forecasting activities through market intelligence and pricing insights.Risk Management & Compliance* Assess and mitigate supply chain risks.* Develop business continuity and alternate sourcing strategies.* Ensure compliance with company procurement policies and regulatory requirements.* Support supplier quality and qualification activities when required.Contract Management* Lead commercial negotiations and contract discussions.* Partner with legal and business stakeholders to finalize agreements.* Ensure contractual compliance and management of key commercial terms.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or above in:* Minimum 8-10+ years of procurement and category management experience.* Strong track record of managing high-value and complex sourcing initiatives.* Experience leading global or regional category strategies.* Experience managing senior stakeholders and strategic supplier relationships.* Biopharmaceutical, life science, CRO/CDMO industry experience strongly preferred.Preferred Qualifications* Master's degree (MBA, Supply Chain, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field) preferred.Preferred professional certifications include:* CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management)* CIPS Certification* CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional)* PMP (Project Management Professional)* Relevant procurement or supply chain certifications