Global Category Manager - CRO; Director

Global Category Manager CRO (Contract Research Organizations)

The Global Category Management for Contract Research Organizations (CRO) is responsible for leading the strategic sourcing and procurement activities for all CRO services with greater than 600 million USD annual spend, required for Clinical Development across Takeda.

This role involves developing and implementing global category strategies, managing supplier relationships, and driving cost‑saving initiatives while ensuring the highest standards of quality and compliance. The incumbent will collaborate with cross‑functional teams including R&D, procurement, quality assurance, and finance to align category strategies with business objectives.

• Develop and implement comprehensive global category strategies for Takeda CRO services.
• Conduct market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and risks.
• Align category strategies with overall business goals and Takeda objectives across functions and regions.
• Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers for CRO services.

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliability, quality, and innovation.
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and conditions with suppliers to achieve optimal pricing and service levels.
• Track, manage, and improve SRM in designated tools and technologies.

• Lead global sourcing initiatives to drive cost savings and value creation.
• Implement best practices in procurement processes, including RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and quality standards.

• Develop and manage the annual demand plan with the business for CRO.
• Track and report on cost savings and financial performance of the category.
• Collaborate with finance teams to forecast and manage spend.

• Work closely with Takeda teams across geographies and functions to understand their requirements and ensure timely and effective procurement of CRO services.
• Partner with Procurement colleagues to find value opportunities and ensure compliance to sourcing strategies.
• Coordinate with R&D GCMs to optimize sourcing strategies.

• Monitor and evaluate supplier performance using key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance category performance.
• Address and resolve any issues related to supplier performance.

• Mentor and develop a global team of procurement professionals.
• Provide mentorship, guidance, and training to cross‑functional team members.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence within the team.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Preferred ISM (Institute of Supplier Management) Certifications
• CPSM Certified Professional in Supply Management
• CPSD Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity
• Minimum of 13 years of experience in procurement, category management, or supply chain management, with a focus on Clinical Development in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing global category strategies within complex and business‑critical areas.
• Strong negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Excellent analytical, financial, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a global, cross‑functional environment.
• Knowledge of industry regulations and quality standards.
• Proficiency in procurement software and tools such as Cirtuo, Ariba, and SAP.

• Strategic Thinking – develop long‑term category strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Analytical Skills – analyze market trends, financial data, and supplier performance.
• Negotiation Skills – expert in negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.
• Leadership – leading and developing high‑performing teams.
• Communication and Presentations – excellent verbal and written communication skills, ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Problem‑Solving – strong problem‑solving skills with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Project Management – manage multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously.
• Collaboration – work across R&D Procurement teams and other procurement colleagues.
• Ability to Manage Ambiguity – remain calm under pressure.
• Conflict Management – address conflicts proactively.
• Planning and Prioritization – scope tasks and projects accurately.
• Drive for Results – focus on delivering outcomes.
• Self‑Development – continuously improve skillset.

Zurich, Switzerland;
Cambridge, MA

CHF - CHF

For information about our benefits, please .

Employee

Regular

Full time