Job Title: Strategic Category Lead, Contract Development & Manufacturing Job Type: Full-time, permanent position Locations: Buckinghamshire, UK (hybrid) Remuneration: Up to £80,000 benefits Are you ready to lead supplier strategy for one of the world’s most recognized healthcare innovators? A leading medical technology company is looking for a Strategic Category Lead to join their pharmaceutical diagnostic division and take ownership of sourcing and vendor management activities critical to the development of life-saving pharmaceuticals. The Opportunity: In this senior-level role, you'll play a pivotal part in the global R&D procurement function, focusing on sourcing and supplier partnerships for clinical trial materials across drug substance and drug product development. You'll be embedded within a high-performing sourcing team and work cross-functionally with R&D, Quality, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and Product Management leaders. What You’ll Do: Lead strategic sourcing and supplier selection for R&D Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs) Develop category strategies that align with long-term clinical and commercial objectives Guide end-to-end contract lifecycle management, including negotiation, vendor onboarding, and compliance oversight Act as a key interface between internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure timely and compliant delivery of clinical trial materials Identify supplier gaps and proactively build a best-in-class supplier base across regions Contribute to global initiatives and implement continuous process improvements Who You Are: A strategic thinker with a strong background in procurement, sourcing, or supplier management—ideally within pharma or biotech Experienced in managing relationships with CDMOs or CMOs Skilled in negotiating complex contracts, navigating regulatory frameworks, and collaborating with cross-functional teams Confident in managing multiple stakeholders and influencing decisions at all levels A strong communicator with a commercial mindset and deep understanding of R&D processes Qualifications Snapshot: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, with substantial industry experience Proven success in category management or strategic sourcing within CMC/Manufacturing category Solid knowledge of GMP, supplier compliance, and pharmaceutical development cycles Experience working within a preclinical or CRO environment. Experience in pharmaceutical research operations, compliance, clinical study execution and supplier management. Project management and leadership capabilities Willingness to travel internationally (approx. 15%) Please apply within. Please note you must hold the FULL right to work in the locations provided, this role does not provide job sponsorship or relocation. Disclaimer: Due to an influx of applications, not every application can be provided feedback.