Head of Vendor Management / Associate Director

About the role

Lead the development of a centralized vendor strategy for an international pharmaceutical and life‑sciences organization, ensuring external services meet strict quality, compliance and performance standards.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement a strategic, centralized vendor management and procurement approach across business units.
• Oversee the full vendor lifecycle – sourcing, qualification, onboarding, performance governance and off‑boarding.
• Negotiate complex contracts, develop pricing strategies and drive cost optimisation while maintaining service quality.
• Establish vendor governance frameworks, KPIs, service metrics and ensure audit‑ready documentation.
• Identify and mitigate third‑party risks, support business continuity planning and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Significant experience in vendor management, procurement or strategic sourcing within regulated life‑sciences, pharmaceutical or CRO environments.
• Proven track record of building high‑performing supplier networks and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, commercial and financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting and cost control.
• Excellent stakeholder management, negotiation and conflict‑resolution skills.

Required skills

• Vendor Management Systems (VMS)
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems

What we offer

• Flexible working arrangements
• Professional development and career progression opportunities
• Collaborative, knowledge‑sharing culture with exposure to international clients
• Meaningful work contributing to patient safety and public health