Global Senior Category Strategy Manager

The Global Senior Category Strategy Manager is a highly influential and impactful role which requires a talented individual who is capable of leading the global category management activities for an assigned portfolio of c$80 million USD inclusive of R&D and Commercial Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) and Regulatory Starting Materials (RSM).  S/he will support Strategic Sourcing management of approximately $350 million USD annual spend.
 

The Manager is responsible for supporting the development of the API/RSM category strategy and associated contract execution/management and supplier performance via a structured Supplier Relationship Management program. S/he will execute innovative procurement solutions to continuously improve the value, quality and service received by Zoetis within the assigned spend areas. The Manager is responsible for effective sourcing, supplier relationship management, risk management, and internal improvement /demand management practices. The right candidate will also act as Deputy to the Global Procurement Head Pharma Europe & API Platform.
 

This role is based in Ireland (Dublin); other Zoetis locations may be considered.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead global category management for assigned API/RSM portfolio, from strategy development through execution and continuous improvement.

• Serve as escalation point for operations to ensure supply, cost, and P&L performance while driving long‑term cost reduction and risk mitigation.

• Act as senior procurement escalation leader to resolve multi‑discipline supplier issues across the organization.

• Develop, implement, and oversee the contract management process in alignment with company standards.

• Negotiate and execute purchasing contracts for APIs and RSMs within the assigned portfolio.

• Lead and facilitate Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) meetings to drive performance and alignment.

• Establish and monitor KPIs for key suppliers as part of the SRM program.

• Support resolution and mitigation of API supplier quality or service issues, including high‑risk supplier management

• Support new product launch/transfer activities

• Partner with Quality, Operations, and cross‑functional teams to ensure compliance with Zoetis policies and sourcing strategies

• Support the Global Head Pharma Europe & API Platform in defining strategies for other Direct Raw materials used within the platform

• Build and execute risk management strategies, support supply assurance, manage API inventory, and contribute to budgeting, financial updates

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

• Directly reports to the Global Procurement Head Pharma Europe & API Platform within the Global Procurement and External Supply, Global Manufacturing and Supply (GMS)

• Strong working relationship with the GMS Site Leads, Site Procurement, Quality, EHS, GMT and all functions that affect the supply base

• Working relationship with Zoetis’ supply base and external enabling functions as required

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Advanced qualification including MBA would be preferable, minimum Bachelor of Science, in chemistry; chemical engineering; pharmaceutical; or supply chain management

• 10+ years Category Management experience preferable in a strategic context

• Knowledge of supply chain processes and systems for sourcing APIs, RSM, and raw materials

• Demonstrable track record of performance in managing complex, cross-functional activities on a Global basis

• Proven stakeholder management at CEO level within the supply base

• Technical or manufacturing background in the Pharmaceutical Industry is preferred

• SAP and Ariba knowledge is preferred

• Management of teams is preferred

SKILLS REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Operates effectively within a complex, dynamic matrix organization

• Leads small project teams and drives collaborative project outcomes

• Applies strong analytical skills and problem‑solving capabilities to resolve procurement challenges

• Independently evaluates situations, anticipating business impacts and initiating appropriate actions

• Performs root‑cause analysis to identify issues and recommend effective solutions

• Communicates clearly across multiple channels to inform and align stakeholders

• Builds and maintains strong, positive working relationships while managing conflict and negotiations constructively

• Demonstrates strong business acumen, including understanding of P&L execution and total cost drivers

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Limited Global travel is required (<20%)

Full time

Legal statement as below

This job advert indicates the general nature and level of work expected.  It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities or responsibilities required of the incumbent.  Incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.  Additional position specific requirements/responsibilities are contained in approved training curricula. 

Visa status re must be eligible to work and live in Ireland as below

Colleague must be legally eligible to live and work in Ireland.

Summary of our Benefits

In addition, to being part the world leading animal health company focused on the needs of those who raise and care for animals we offer a range of benefits such as competitive salary, bonus, 25.5 days holiday per annum plus public holidays,  a defined contributory pension plan, private medical insurance for you and your family and empowered flexible working, to name a few. Please note that the benefits outlined are subject to change based on organization decision.