Smith+Nephew
medical device
GlobalCategoryManager,Implants
Neural analysis suggests this role is
optimal for Mid candidates.
“Global Category Manager, Implants at Smith+Nephew. Skills: Supplier management, Category management, Cost reduction, Negotiation. Oversee day to day supplier management activities. Lead sourcing decisions within assigned categories”
What You'll Achieve.
Ensure consistent execution of sourcing strategies, compliance, and performance expectations; Reduce cost; Ensure supply continuity; Cost deflation; Profitability; Reduce operational and supply chain risk; Meet financial targets; Mitigate supplier risk; Ensure successful integration into new product launches; Meet or exceed manufacturing requirements and business objectives; Support long term business goals; Deliver the lowest total cost; Maintain competitive service levels
Industry & Context.
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
3-5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement, or supply‑chain operations within a manufacturing or regulated medical device, Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, Deep knowledge of direct material categories, Strong understanding of commodity inputs, Proven experience in supplier selection, qualification, negotiation, and performance management, Working knowledge of manufacturing processes, Proficiency with ERP(SAP)/MRP systems, Proficiency with procurement tools, Proficiency with MS Suite XLS/PPT/DOC, Proficiency with data/market analysis tools
Nice to Have
medical device experience is a advantage
What You'll Do.
Oversee day to day supplier management activities
Lead sourcing decisions within assigned categories
Support the NPD process
Implement supplier and part strategies
Continuously monitor supplier performance
Provide expert supplier guidance
Analyze total spending
Leverage deep market knowledge
Set strategic direction for global component sourcing
Partner with Global Procurement and Operations
Develop and execute global commodity strategies
Create innovative sourcing arrangements
Negotiate complex contracts
Develop understanding of product lines
Link raw material costs to product pricing
Lead cross functional initiatives
and onboard new suppliers
Apply manufacturing process knowledge
Build cross functional relationships
Apply Six Sigma and Lean methodologies
Drive continuous improvement in sourcing processes
Manage complex projects and supplier relationships
Implement programs that drive QCDD performance
Reduce operational and supply chain risk
Respond promptly to internal and external SCN activity
Analyze cost structures and cost planning data
Develop and execute cost reduction strategies
Meet financial targets
Mitigate supplier risk
Develop deep understanding of assigned commodities
Support supplier/part strategy execution
Ensure successful integration into new product launches
Continuously research and monitor industry trends
Operate with a sense of urgency and accountability
Follow up consistently
Ensure manufacturing requirements and business objectives are met or exceeded
or critical materials
value driven methodologies
Support long term business goals
Proactively identify and communicate risks or delays
Focus on non conformance with required standards
Influence internal stakeholders
Implement procurement strategies
Deliver the lowest total cost
Maintain competitive service levels
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
Collaborate closely with ‘PEER’ Category Managers, product development teams, and cross functional partners across Global Operations; Build cross functional relationships with key stakeholders in Manufacturing Operations, Quality Compliance, Engineering, Supplier Quality, Finance, and Regulatory
Communication Scope
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills; Ability to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels; Build supplier partnerships
Process & Methodology
Manage complex projects
Full Job Description
Key Responsibilities: Oversee day to day supplier management activities, ensuring consistent execution of sourcing strategies, compliance, and performance expectations. Lead sourcing decisions within assigned categories, support the NPD process, implement supplier and part strategies, and continuously monitor supplier performance. Collaborate closely with ‘PEER’ Category Managers, product development teams, and cross functional partners across Global Operations to align sourcing decisions with business needs. Provide expert supplier guidance to ensure adherence to best practices, compliance requirements, pricing expectations, and delivery standards. Analyze total spending, pricing structures, commercial terms, and market trends across raw materials, components, semi finished goods, and finished goods to inform sourcing strategies. Leverage deep market knowledge—including cost drivers and supply/demand dynamics—to strengthen sourcing decisions and enhance Smith+Nephew’s competitive position. RISE Set strategic direction for global component sourcing, including castings and forgings for medical devices, and align with the Category Manager for global raw material strategies as needed. Partner with Global Procurement and Operations to develop and execute global commodity strategies where applicable. Work collaboratively with business leaders, suppliers, and customers to create innovative sourcing arrangements that reduce cost and risk; negotiate complex contracts for strategic materials. Develop a strong understanding of Smith+Nephew’s product lines, market strategy, competitive landscape, and technologies to effectively link raw material costs to product pricing. Lead cross functional initiatives to identify, qualify, negotiate, and successfully onboard new suppliers; apply manufacturing process knowledge to ensure supply continuity, cost deflation, and profitability. Build strong cross functional relationships with key stakeholders in Manufacturing Operations, Quality
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