Global Category Manager Primary Packaging & Devices (Pharma)

TL;DR

Global Category Manager Primary Packaging & Devices (Pharma): Execute spend analysis, supplier engagement, and portfolio management for primary packaging and devices at corporate level with an accent on cost savings, sustainable procurement, and strategic supplier partnerships. Focus on negotiating supply agreements, monitoring KPIs, managing purchase orders, and ensuring compliance with procurement policies and ethics.

Location: Open across Europe; selected candidate may choose base location but required to travel periodically to Parma, Italy. Availability for business trips is required.

Company

International research-focused biopharmaceutical group with 90 years’ experience, operating in more than 30 countries, headquartered in Parma, Italy, with over 8,000 employees.

What you will do

• Execute spend analysis by sub-category, forecast spend for consolidation and synergies, identify savings opportunities.
• Manage supplier engagement, selection, qualification, and evaluation processes per procurement policies and sustainable guidelines.
• Prepare direct materials standard costs, define and monitor KPIs, negotiate and renew supply agreements.
• Manage suppliers portfolio, strategic partnerships, purchase orders, and potential litigation.
• Collaborate with internal departments like Supply Chain, Production, and Quality Assurance on supplier interviews and evaluations.

Requirements

• Academic degree in Engineering or Economics.
• Over 4 years of experience in Procurement within an international structured company.
• Fluent in English.
• Proven experience in contract management and supplier negotiations.
• Ability to manage cross-functional and international relations; problem-solving, analytical skills, operational flexibility.

Nice to have

• Knowledge of SAP ERP system.
• Previous experience in a pharmaceutical company.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare programs, work-life balance initiatives, robust relocation support.
• Competitive salary with performance bonuses, benefits benchmarked to market.
• Flexible working arrangements, remote work options, tax assistance for foreign colleagues.
• Development resources, training, dynamic friendly environment.
• Commitment to sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and ethical practices as a B Corp.