Key Supplier Sourcing Manager

Contract: 6-month contract (with potential to extend)

Location: Germany

Sector: Pharmaceuticals

Overview

A global, innovation-focused organisation within the life sciences sector is seeking an experienced Key Supplier Sourcing Manager to join its sourcing function on an initial 6-month contract, with a strong possibility of extension. This role is critical to the delivery of strategic sourcing initiatives and the management of key suppliers supporting regulated manufacturing operations. You will work closely with Category Managers and cross-functional stakeholders to translate category strategies into executable sourcing plans, driving value, supply security, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Execution

• Deliver end-to-end strategic sourcing initiatives aligned with category and business objectives
• Translate category strategies into actionable sourcing plans
• Lead complex sourcing and negotiation projects across manufacturing sites
• Define, track, and report on sourcing KPIs and savings initiatives

Supplier & Contract Management

• Identify, assess, qualify, and onboard strategic suppliers
• Lead RFx processes, contract negotiations, and supplier transitions
• Manage supplier performance, pricing development, and cost-saving initiatives
• Implement supplier risk management and mitigation plans for critical materials
• Support strategic supplier development and SRM activities

Stakeholder Engagement

• Partner closely with Category Managers, procurement teams, manufacturing, planning, and quality stakeholders
• Act as a key sourcing interface for plant-level and regional stakeholders
• Lead and influence cross-functional teams without direct line management responsibility

Operational Excellence & Sustainability

• Support sourcing process improvements and best-practice implementation
• Contribute to sustainability and responsible sourcing initiatives
• Monitor market trends and supplier landscapes to inform sourcing decisions

Required Experience & Skills

Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Life Sciences, or related discipline (MBA desirable)
• Minimum 5+ years' experience in strategic sourcing or procurement within Life Sciences, Pharma, Medical Devices or highly regulated manufacturing
• Experience operating within a large, multinational, matrix organisation
• Knowledge of manufacturing environments; cGMP experience highly desirable

Skills & Competencies

• Strong end-to-end sourcing and supplier management expertise
• Advanced negotiation and contract management skills
• Proven ability to manage complex sourcing projects concurrently
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder-management capabilities
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP or Oracle)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in cross-cultural environments