Category Manager (m/f/d) External Manufacturing Drug Product, Finished Goods

For our client, a renowned pharmaceutical company, we are currently looking for a Category Manager External Manufacturing Drug Product, Finished Goods.The Category Manager External Manufacturing Drug Product, Finished Goods is accountable for developing procurement strategies and leading initiatives for the Category on a global basis. As a member of the Category Management team the role is responsible for proactively leading and identifying opportunities, engaging, and partnering with senior business stakeholders and regional Procurement, and managing Category / Sub-Category suppliers to deliver the overall Category performance and savings targets. The Category Manager is accountable for the effective management of the category / sub-categories using the company's category management approach, including the development, implementation, and maintenance of a formalized Category Strategy, category buying guides / content, and the overall delivery of high value savings targets. The role ensures input and operationalization of the Category Strategy by engaging with the Category and Supplier Management team, local and regional Procurement, and Business stakeholders to develop and validate the Category Strategy and pipeline of initiatives. The role also provides category / sub-category specific input to the development of category buying guides / content to translate the Category Strategy and initiative outcomes into clear, practical guidance / content for Procurement colleagues and Business Partners. The Category Manager is also responsible for building and maintaining Business Partner relationships with senior Business stakeholders and acts as a key point of contact for category / sub-category activities in the assigned categories. As part of the Category team the Category Manager has deep category / sub-category subject matter knowledge and expertise in the company’s category and supplier relationship management (SRM) approach, the specific assigned categories, and works to ensure this knowledge is shared and embedded to drive performance. The role has deep expertise in supporting the realization of Procurement targets, including delivery of high value sourcing, demand management, process re-engineering, and supplier performance and innovation activities. The role uses strong leadership, superb strategic agility, communication, and influencing skills to ensure stakeholder alignment and support to deliver the implementation of Category Strategies and initiatives. The Category Manager works to establish effective working relationships with local and regional Procurement to ensure alignment and the full realization of the benefits of the Category Strategy. Through the rigorous application of procurement techniques and partnering with local and regional Procurement as well as senior Business stakeholders, the Category Manager delivers significant Business value and Procurement impact.The Perfect Candidate possesses significant expertise in CMO Management and contract negotiation. Fluency in English and experience with GMP are also essential requirements.General Information:Start Date: asapLatest Possible Start Date: 01.02.2026Planned Duration of Employment: 6-9 monthsExtension: TBDWorkplace: BaselWorkload: 100%Home Office: YesTravel: YesTeam: External Manufacturing Services, 18 peopleWorking Hours: Standard24/7 Area Access Basel: YesDoes this position have access to the company's products or is it in a GMP relevant environment? JaTasks & Responsibilities:Strategic Sourcing / CDMO Site Selections including Due DiligencePrice NegotiationContracting of CMO contractsSRM Activities for CMOsMust Haves:University degree a scientific or business field or similarMin. 5 years relevant experience CMO Management or procurement in CMO space GMP Experience MS Office, Google workspaceFluent communications skills in EnglishExcellent communication skillsAnalytical skills and strategic thinkingExperience in negotiation contracts with CMO’sNext steps:• Interviews: 2 interviews per candidate, 1st virtual, 2nd onsite• Info: Please note that this job posting will be halted 20.11.2025 at 10.00.