Sourcing Manager (m/f/d)

Sourcing Manager (m/f/d)/GMP/Direct Procurement Operationn / SAP / ZugProject: The Sourcing Manager is responsible for the end-to-end execution of Direct Procurement operations for a specific region, country, or site, with a focus on sourcing direct materials such as raw materials, APIs, packaging, and laboratory supplies. This role combines operational excellence with strategic supplier management, including supplier selection, qualification, contracting, performance monitoring, and risk management, in close alignment with the Category Management team.

As a key member of the Direct Procurement Operations team, the Sourcing Manager executes value-add activities such as first-level escalation handling from business stakeholders, master data management, supplier performance management, and driving cost optimization and continuous improvement initiatives. The role ensures that business needs are translated into procurement requirements and that operational delivery meets the expectations of internal customers.

The ideal candidate brings proven experience in strategic and operational procurement of direct materials, with a strong track record in supplier selection, qualification, and performance management. Expertise in contract negotiation, price optimization, and risk mitigation is essential. Familiarity with Life Science regulations (GMP, GDP, ISO 13485, FDA) and audit processes is highly advantageous.

Close collaboration with R&D, Production, Quality, and Regulatory Affairs teams is required, alongside excellent stakeholder management, analytical capabilities, and negotiation skills. By efficiently managing the direct procurement process, the Sourcing Manager drives both operational excellence and cost-saving opportunities, ensuring maximum value-add to the organization.

Tasks:

• Ensure all procurement requests are executed in line with category guidance and in compliance with relevant policies, standards, guidelines, and operating procedures, including preferred supplier arrangements and contracting requirements
• Execute procurement requests in line with category guidance and compliance requirements
• Collaborate with Procurement and Business stakeholders to understand and execute relevant procurement processes
• Apply appropriate methodologies, tools, and value levers for effective procurement
• Work with Category Management teams to address end-user requirements and identify opportunities for aggregation and leverage
• Ensure consistent value delivery through continuous improvement methodologies, operational efficiencies, and optimal supplier performance
• Collaborate with legal and contracting functions for contracting activities, including preparation and review of master agreements, statements of work, and change orders
• Understand end-user requirements as received directly or indirectly
• Leverage applicable category guidance documents and procurement knowledge to determine the best method for driving value in meeting the request
• Execute support requests, applying continuous improvement methodologies where possible
• Ensure compliance with applicable policies, standards, and operating procedures to maintain the organization's right to operate
• Communicate the status, progress, and outcomes of procurement activities
• Support the creation and review of relevant purchasing documentation
• Maintain information flows back to the Category Management teams

Requirements: Must haves:

• University degree in business, supply chain, or a related field
• Minimum 3 years of procurement experience with knowledge of basic contracting, business enterprise systems, and spot buying (****)
• Strong communication skills and proven ability to translate business requirements into procurement specifications with customer service in mind (****)
• Proven experience in direct procurement of raw materials, APIs, packaging, and lab supplies.
• Strong supplier management, negotiation, and contract management skills.
• Knowledge of procurement processes and enterprise tools (e.g., SAP).
• Familiarity with Life Science regulations (GMP, GDP, ISO 13485, FDA).
• Excellent stakeholder management, analytical thinking, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of business enterprise tools (SAP) (****)
• Experience or demonstrated understanding of supporting cost reduction and value improvement programs
• Strong team player

Requirements Nice to Have

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