Global Category Lead, Manufacturing

Position: Global Category Lead, Contract Manufacturing
** About Astellas*
* Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at

** Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?*
* We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

** Purpose & Scope:*
* The Global Category Lead - Contract Manufacturing is responsible for developing and executing the global category strategy for external pharmaceutical manufacturing partners. This role ensures that contract manufacturing capabilities are aligned with business priorities, pipeline needs, quality standards, and financial objectives.

The scope includes strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and commercial governance across global Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs/CDMOs), Expected to liaise with the Head of External Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, and R&D. The role drives sustainable value creation while balancing cost, supply continuity, risk, and operational flexibility.

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* Role and Responsibilities:

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* + Stakeholder Engagement:
Serve as the primary commercial interface between Procurement and External Manufacturing, CDMO Quality, Supply Chain, R&D, and Finance.

+ Supplier Relationship Management:
Identify, evaluate, and manage strategic supplier relationships to deliver innovation, quality, and cost efficiencies while fostering collaboration and compliance. Drive joint productivity, innovation, and continuous improvement initiatives with key suppliers.

+ Cost, Value, and Operations Optimization:
Deliver sustainable, multi-year value creation beyond one-time price reduction. Target of 10% YoY. Develop and apply cost transparency and should-cost models to inform negotiations and decisions.

+ Market Expertise:
Maintain deep understanding of the global contract manufacturing market, including capacity trends, technology evolution, and cost drivers. Leverage market intelligence to inform sourcing strategies, negotiations, and risk mitigation plans

+ Category Strategy Development and Enterprise Leadership:
Develop and implement global category strategies for research and pre-clinical categories, ensuring alignment with business objectives and research timelines.

+ People Leadership:
Lead, coach, and develop category managers and sourcing professionals. Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. Build functional capability in strategic sourcing, negotiation, and supplier management.

+ Governance, Compliance and Reporting:
Ensure adherence to corporate procurement policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements, maintaining full audit readiness. Provide category performance insights, savings tracking, and KPI reporting to senior management.

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* Required Qualifications:

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* + Bachelor's degree

+ Exceptional negotiation and contract management skills.

+ Operational expertise (P2P, RFx, Negotiations, etc)

+ Project Management acumen with the ability to drive change and develop operational models.

+ Strong communication, relationship management, and influencing skills.

+ Category credibility (scientific degree, category experience, etc)

+ Cultural awareness and ability to work effectively in a global, matrixed environment.

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* Preferred Qualifications:

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* + Advanced degree (MBA, MSc, or equivalent) in life sciences or related field

+ Understanding of the role of a global function within broader enterprise strategy

** Location and Working Environment*
* This position is based in Northbrook, Illinois.  Remote work from anywhere in the US is available.

At Astellas we recognize the importance of work/life balance, and we are proud to offer a hybrid working solution allowing time to connect with colleagues at the office with the flexibility to also work from home. We believe this will optimize the most productive work environment for all employees to succeed and deliver. Hybrid work from certain locations may be permitted in accordance with Astellas' Responsible Flexibility Guidelines.

** What awaits you at Astellas?*
* + Global collaboration:
Become part of a connected global business of like-minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide. Real-world patient impact:
Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day.

+ Relentless

Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.

+ A Culture of Growth:
Chart your own course within a supportive environment…