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- Tasks: Manage procurement processes for contract manufacturing and optimise operational efficiency.
- Company: Join Dechra, a global leader in veterinary pharmaceuticals.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the pharmaceutical industry while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in procurement, preferably in international manufacturing, with a focus on CMOs.
- Other info: Dynamic role with occasional global travel and a commitment to diversity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
The CMO Category Manager is part of the Global Procurement Team within the Supply Chain and reports to Head of Procurement. This position will be responsible for managing and optimizing our procurement processes for contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs). Working closely with internal stakeholders, including External Manufacturing Team, R&D, quality assurance, and supply chain teams, to ensure that the CMO procurement strategies align with the company's objectives and regulatory requirements. It is expected that the Category Manager will lead and contribute to enhancing operational efficiency and cost‑effectiveness while maintaining the highest product quality standards and compliance.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the External Manufacturing team in the development and implementation of sourcing strategies for contract manufacturing operations for Dechra products, predominantly pharmaceutical and diets.
- Collaborate with External Manufacturing Team in negotiation and manage contracts with CMOs to ensure favourable terms and conditions.
- Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to identify procurement needs and drive efficiency in sourcing activities.
- Monitor and evaluate supplier performance.
- Collaborate with the External Manufacturing team in conducting market analysis to identify potential suppliers and evaluate their capabilities and offerings.
- Lead initiatives to improve cost‑effectiveness and optimize the procurement process for contract manufacturing.
- Lead the category team comprising of Category Procurement Specialist(s).
- Build Group procurement best practices to identify and deliver sustained year‑on‑year pipeline of opportunities.
- Proactively partner and align with the External Manufacturing Team, Product Development, Regulatory, QC and Global Supply site teams, as well as support functions to ensure delivery of the strategic and operational needs of the business.
- Guarantees operational performance by being a proactive business partner.
- Responsible for continuously gathering Market Intelligence to ensure market competitiveness and transparency of current terms of cooperation with suppliers.
Additional Information
Occasional global travel may be required with this role. This role is based in Northwich / hybrid.
Required Skills & Experience
- Experienced procurement professional with minimum 5 years of experience ideally in an international manufacturing organisation with category knowledge of CMOs / CDMOs / CROs or similar.
- Expertise in number of product‑related procurement categories within Pharmaceutical or other chemically regulated industry.
- In‑depth knowledge of procurement systems and best practices.
- Working knowledge of multi‑site ERP systems (Oracle / SAP preferred).
- Experience in leading international procurement projects.
- Good understanding of contractual terms and conditions.
- Good knowledge of suppliers market and environment.
- Bachelor's Degree in Life Sciences or supply chain management or equivalent work experience.
Dechra is a growing, global specialist in veterinary pharmaceuticals. Our expertise is in the development, manufacture, marketing and sales of high quality products exclusively for veterinarians worldwide. We value diversity within our global workforce and encourage an inclusive culture.
Category Manager - CMO in Northwich employer: Dechra
Contact Detail:
Dechra Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Category Manager - CMO in Northwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work in procurement or have experience with CMOs. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Dechra and its procurement processes. Understand their products and how they align with your expertise. This will help you showcase how you can contribute to their goals during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Category Manager, you'll need to negotiate contracts with CMOs. Role-play scenarios with friends or colleagues to build confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the Dechra team.
We think you need these skills to ace Category Manager - CMO in Northwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Category Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement, especially with CMOs, and showcase any relevant achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for Dechra. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your expertise in procurement and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your skills in negotiation, market analysis, and supplier performance evaluation. These are key for the role, so make sure they stand out in your application!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dechra
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of procurement processes, especially in relation to contract manufacturing organisations (CMOs). Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in the past and how they align with the company's objectives.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with various teams, prepare examples that highlight your ability to collaborate effectively. Think about times when you’ve successfully partnered with R&D, quality assurance, or supply chain teams to achieve a common goal.
✨Be Ready for Market Analysis Questions
Expect questions about how you conduct market analysis and evaluate supplier performance. Have some insights ready about current trends in the pharmaceutical industry and how you would apply that knowledge to enhance procurement strategies.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
As a Category Manager, you'll be leading a team. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've led international procurement projects or improved operational efficiency in previous roles.
