Global Category Manager

SHL Medical is the world-leading solution provider in the design, development, and manufacturing of advanced drug delivery systems with more than 5000 employees worldwide. Our customers include top pharmaceutical and biotech companies from around the globe that require innovative devices such as auto-injectors or pen injectors to effectively deliver their drugs. Headquartered in Switzerland since late 2018, with sites in Sweden, Taiwan, and the United States.

**Job Overview**

This pivotal role is responsible for managing and optimizing the sourcing strategy for the direct materials in-scope (dominantly resins and masterbatch) across the entire organization. The Global Category Manager will demonstrate exceptional strategic sourcing expertise, strong stakeholder as well as supplier relationship management and the ability to drive cost-effective procurement solutions while ensuring compliance with regulations in the medical device industry. The role includes responsibility for market
- and spend analysis as well as reducing complexity in the supply base through the establishment of a preferred supplier list.

**Main Responsibilities**
- Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies for direct spend including resins and masterbatch, aligning with the company’s overall business objectives. This includes analysing market trends, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and risk mitigation strategies.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, negotiate favourable contracts, and establish performance metrics to ensure quality, delivery, and cost-effectiveness.
- Lead global sourcing initiatives, ensuring consistency in procurement processes and standards across various regions. Collaborate with regional procurement teams to drive synergy in sourcing activities.
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement within the categories. Implement cost-saving measures while maintaining product quality and compliance with industry standards.
- Ensure that all sourcing activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards, particularly in the highly regulated medical device industry. Develop risk mitigation plans within the category.
- Promote supplier diversity initiatives by identifying and partnering with diverse suppliers to enhance the company’s supplier base.
- Reduce complexity in the supply base by establishing a preferred supplier list (PSL). Streamline procurement processes, enhance supplier relationships, and drive cost efficiencies.
- Stay up-to-date with market trends, technological advancements, and industry best practices. Use this information to make informed sourcing decisions and adapt strategies accordingly.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, manufacturing, quality assurance, and finance, to align sourcing strategies with overall business goals.
- Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor supplier performance, category cost savings, and overall procurement effectiveness. Regularly report on progress to senior management.
- Manage the category budget effectively, tracking expenditures and ensuring adherence to financial targets.

**Skills and Qualification**
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. MBA or relevant certifications (e.g., CSCP, CPSM) is a plus.
- Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive procurement and category management experience in a global, highly regulated industry.
- Strong negotiation skills and a proven track record of achieving cost savings and supplier performance improvements.
- In-depth knowledge of the purchased materials within the category including mass-balance approach and sustainable feedstock.
- Understanding on the moulding technology and manufacturing processes.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Business Fluency in English (German as a plus).
- Familiarity with global regulations and compliance requirements related to procurement in the medical device industry, preferred.

**We Offer**
- A company culture Focusing on our Customers, Operating with Ethics and Integrity, Driving Simplicity, Learning, Improving & Delivering Together.
- A multicultural team and modern working environment with state-of-the-art facilities and technologies.
- Challenging assignments in a fast growing and innovative industry.
- Various opportunities for personal and professional development within a global organization.
- Flexible hours and hybrid working policy.
- Centrally located office in Zug, very close to the train station.