Procurement Director - R&D

Director, R&D Procurement (Global) Our client is a leading global FMCG and Pharmaceutical organisation with a portfolio of market-leading brands and a strong commitment to innovation, quality and scientific excellence. As part of an ambitious growth strategy, they are seeking an experienced Director of R&D Procurement to lead a critical global procurement function supporting Research & Development activities across multiple international markets.

Reporting into the Global Direct & Innovation Procurement leadership team, this role will take ownership of a significant global spend portfolio covering Clinical Research, Pre-Clinical Services, Laboratory Services, Testing, and R&D Outsourced Services, with responsibility for over £80m of spend globally. This is a highly visible leadership role partnering with senior stakeholders across R&D, Supply Chain, Commercial, Finance and External Suppliers to drive value, innovation, risk management and long-term procurement strategy.

Key Responsibilities Develop and implement a comprehensive global procurement strategy for R&D outsourced services and laboratory categories. Lead strategic sourcing initiatives across a complex global supplier landscape. Deliver value creation through cost optimisation, innovation, quality improvements and risk mitigation. Build strong partnerships with senior internal stakeholders to understand business priorities and align procurement strategies accordingly. Create compelling business cases and influence executive stakeholders to support strategic change initiatives.

Lead contractual negotiations and work closely with Legal teams to execute complex commercial agreements. Drive supplier performance management and establish strategic partnerships with key vendors. Ensure sourcing strategies support regulatory compliance, business continuity and assurance of supply. Lead, mentor and develop a high-performing procurement team across multiple regions. Identify emerging market trends and supplier innovations to support future business growth.

About You You will be a strategic procurement leader with extensive experience operating within regulated environments and supporting R&D or Innovation functions on a global scale. Experience Required Significant procurement leadership experience, including management of global teams. Deep expertise across Clinical Research, CROs, Laboratory Services, R&D Outsourcing or Scientific Services procurement categories. Strong knowledge of supplier markets within the pharmaceutical, life sciences, healthcare or FMCG sectors.

Proven track record delivering global category strategies and measurable commercial benefits. Experience leading large-scale sourcing projects and complex contract negotiations. Demonstrated ability to influence and engage senior executive stakeholders across global organisations. Strong understanding of risk management, compliance and governance requirements. Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Business, Science or a related discipline. Master's Degree and/or relevant professional procurement qualifications preferred.

Key Competencies Strategic sourcing and category management Executive stakeholder engagement Supplier relationship management Commercial negotiation Change management Project leadership Financial and commercial analysis Communication and influencing skills Team leadership and development Apply Now If you are an experienced procurement leader with expertise in R&D, Clinical Services or Scientific Procurement and are looking for your next strategic leadership opportunity, we would be delighted to discuss this position further Guidant, Carbon
60, Lorien & SRG - The Vertage Group Portfolio are acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.