Global Category Manager – CRO (Director)

About the role

The Global Category Manager for Contract Research Organizations (CRO) leads strategic sourcing and procurement for Takeda’s clinical development portfolio, overseeing an annual spend of over $600 million. The role shapes global category strategies, manages key supplier relationships, and drives cost‑saving initiatives while ensuring compliance and quality.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive global category strategies for CRO services.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key CRO suppliers, negotiating contracts and terms.
• Lead global sourcing initiatives, managing RFIs, RFPs and RFQs to achieve cost savings.
• Develop and manage the annual demand plan, track financial performance and forecast spend.
• Collaborate with R&D, quality, finance and procurement teams across regions.
• Monitor supplier performance using KPIs and drive continuous improvement.
• Mentor and develop a global team of procurement professionals.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum 13 years of procurement or category management experience in pharmaceutical clinical development.
• Proven ability to create and execute global category strategies in complex, business‑critical environments.
• Strong negotiation, contract management and supplier relationship skills.
• Excellent analytical, financial and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Leadership experience managing high‑performing, cross‑functional teams.
• Knowledge of industry regulations, quality standards and proficiency with procurement tools such as Cirtuo, Ariba and SAP.

Required skills

• Cirtuo
• Ariba
• SAP