Global Category Manager - CRO; Director

Global Category Manager - CRO (Director)

Join Takeda as a Global Category Manager - CRO (Director). This role leads strategic sourcing and procurement for Contract Research Organization (CRO) services with an annual spend exceeding $600 M, supporting Takeda’s clinical development initiatives.

The role develops and implements global category strategies, manages supplier relationships, drives cost‑saving initiatives, and ensures the highest standards of quality and compliance. The incumbent collaborates with cross‑functional teams—including R&D, procurement, quality assurance, and finance—to align category strategies with business objectives.

• Category Strategy Development
  • Develop and implement comprehensive global category strategies for Takeda CRO services.
  • Conduct market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and risks.
  • Align category strategies with overall business goals and Takeda objectives across functions and regions.
  • Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers for CRO services.
• Supplier Relationship Management
  • Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliability, quality, and innovation.
  • Negotiate contracts, terms, and conditions with suppliers to achieve optimal pricing and service levels.
  • Track, manage, and improve Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) using designated tools and technologies.
• Procurement and Sourcing
  • Lead global sourcing initiatives to drive cost savings and value creation.
  • Implement best practices in procurement processes, including RFIs, RFPs, and RFQs.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, industry regulations, and quality standards.
• Financial Management
  • Develop and manage the annual demand plan for the CRO category.
  • Track and report on cost savings and financial performance of the category.
  • Collaborate with finance teams to forecast and manage spend.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with Takeda teams across geographies and functions to understand requirements and ensure timely procurement of CRO services.
  • Partner with Procurement colleagues to find value opportunities and ensure compliance with sourcing strategies.
  • Coordinate with R&D GCMs to optimize sourcing strategies.
• Performance Management
  • Monitor and evaluate supplier performance using key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance category performance.
  • Address and resolve any issues related to supplier performance.
• Team Leadership
  • Mentor and develop a global team of procurement professionals.
  • Provide mentorship, guidance, and training to cross‑functional team members.
  • Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence within the team.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Preferred ISM (Institute of Supplier Management)
  
  Certifications:
  
  CPSM®, CPSD®.
• Minimum of 13 years of experience in procurement, category management, or supply chain management, with a focus on Clinical Development in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven experience developing and implementing global category strategies within complex, business‑critical areas.
• Strong negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Excellent analytical, financial, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a global, cross‑functional environment.
• Knowledge of industry regulations and quality standards.
• Proficiency in procurement software and tools such as Cirtuo, Ariba, and SAP.

• Strategic Thinking – develop long‑term category strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Analytical Skills – analyze market trends, financial data, and supplier performance.
• Negotiation Skills – negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships.
• Leadership – lead and develop high‑performing teams.
• Communication & Presentation – influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Problem‑Solving – focus on continuous improvement.
• Project Management – manage multiple projects and initiatives simultaneously.
• Collaboration – work across R&D Procurement and other business partners.
• Ability to handle…