Global Category Manager

About the role

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.

What will you be doing?

• 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.
• 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 Compliance, Engineering, Supplier Quality, Finance, and Regulatory.
• Apply Six Sigma and Lean methodologies to drive continuous improvement in sourcing processes, supplier productivity, and supplier development initiatives.
• Manage complex projects and supplier relationships while implementing programs that drive QCDD performance and reduce operational and supply-chain risk.
• Respond promptly and effectively to internal and external SCN activity, NCRs, and audit findings related to supplier management partnering with our Supplier Quality Team.
• Analyze cost structures and cost-planning data to develop and execute cost-reduction strategies that meet financial targets while mitigating supplier risk; accountable for standard budget development and PPV savings performance.
• Develop deep understanding of assigned commodities, including parts, processes, and supplier capabilities, and support supplier/part strategy execution to ensure successful integration into new product launches. Continuously research and monitor industry trends in sourcing, technology, and market pricing.
• Operate with a strong sense of urgency and accountability, following up consistently to ensure manufacturing requirements and business objectives are met or exceeded.
• Negotiate high-value, complex components, or critical materials, using strategic, value-driven methodologies that support long-term business goals.
• Proactively identify and communicate risks or delays in onboarding critical suppliers, focusing on any instances of non-conformance with required standards.
• Influence internal stakeholders by implementing procurement strategies that deliver the lowest total cost while maintaining competitive service levels.

What will you need to be successful?

• This position is not offering any type of visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field; advanced MS degree desired.
• Licenses/ Certifications: Certifications (e.g., CPM, CPSM, APICS, Six Sigma).
• Experience: +5 years of experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement, or supply-chain operations within a manufacturing or regulated industry; medical device experience is a strong advantage.
• Proficiency with ERP(SAP)/MRP systems, and procurement tools, along with strong skills in MS Suite XLS/PPT/DOC and as well as data/market analysis tools Spend Management (SIEVO).
• Technology AI experience within in procurement systems is preferred.

Competences

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, including cost analysis, financial acumen, project management skills, and a solid understanding of contract structures and terms.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels and build strong supplier partnerships.
• Deep knowledge of direct material categories, including forging, casting, machining, finishing, polishing, and associated secondary operations.
• Strong understanding of commodity inputs, such as titanium, stainless steel, cobalt chrome, and zirconium, and how these materials impact cost, supply, and product strategy.
• Proven experience in supplier selection, qualification, negotiation, and performance management, including onboarding new suppliers and managing complex or global supply categories.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and the ability to evaluate supplier capabilities to ensure supply continuity, cost deflation, and operational performance.

Travel Requirements

• Travel up to 25% may be required.
• You Unlimited.
• We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.

• Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Options, Tuition Reimbursement
• Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day
• Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program
• Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship
• Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and more!

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