Direct Procurement Lead

About the Company

Are you passionate about making a measurable impact in a fast-paced, global environment? We’re looking for a results-driven Direct Procurement Lead to play a key role in optimizing our supply chain and driving value across our organization. In this leadership position, you’ll be at the forefront of strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and cross-functional collaboration—helping us achieve operational excellence and sustainable growth.

About the Role

The role leads supplier business reviews and category meetings, ensuring cross-functional alignment with Procurement, Technical, and Operations teams. Additional duties include identifying and qualifying new suppliers to enhance competitiveness and reduce risk, collaborating with Finance to quantify savings impact, and maintaining transparency on cost drivers. The candidate will lead complex supplier negotiations, utilize cost breakdowns and market trends, and develop negotiation playbooks with the Strategic Sourcing Specialist for effective execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing, negotiation, and contracting for Direct materials to achieve savings, quality, and supply continuity.
• Own assigned categories globally, develop sourcing strategies, conduct market benchmarking, and drive competitive positioning.
• Lead complex supplier negotiations, leveraging cost breakdowns, volume leverage, and market trends.
• Develop negotiation playbooks with the Strategic Sourcing Specialist and execute them effectively with cross-functional alignment.
• Perform independent cost and market analyses to identify opportunities for price improvement, supplier consolidation, or alternate sourcing.
• Build and maintain cost models, track raw material indices, and perform variance analysis to anticipate cost changes and negotiate proactively.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–10 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain management in a manufacturing or regulated environment (pharma, nutraceutical, or chemical industry preferred).
• Proven expertise in negotiation and contract management for raw materials, packaging, and services.
• Demonstrated experience in vendor qualification programs and supplier audits.
• Strong analytical and financial skills (cost modeling, spend analysis, TCO evaluation).
• Excellent project management, planning, and organizational skills.
• Strong understanding of cGMP and quality management requirements.
• Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP, NAV, Business Central) and advanced Excel / Power BI skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills in English.
• High level of initiative, autonomy, and accountability in delivering business results.

Required Skills

• Bachelor’s degree
• Certifications such as, CSCP, MCIPS or equivalent strongly preferred.
• Formal training in Negotiation, or Strategic Sourcing, is an advantage.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in a manufacturing or regulated environment.
• Advanced skills in cost modeling and spend analysis.

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