Global Category Manager – Packaging (Pharma)

About the role

UCB is seeking a Global Category Manager for Packaging within its Internal Manufacturing Procurement team. The role supports the Patient Supply organisation and is responsible for ensuring supply continuity, driving value creation, and contributing to the company’s growth ambitions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute best‑in‑class sourcing strategies for the packaging category.
• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives to optimise cost, improve quality, and secure supply continuity.
• Provide market intelligence and supplier insights to shape long‑term category decisions.
• Conduct commercial negotiations and establish master agreements that maximise value.
• Manage the full sourcing lifecycle from tendering through contracting and supplier performance.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with strategic suppliers to foster innovation and resilience.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align sourcing strategies with business needs.
• Apply structured risk‑management approaches to safeguard supply continuity and minimise exposure.
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with regulatory and GxP requirements.
• Act as a role model for ethical behaviour, compliance, and UCB’s core values.

Required profile

• Experience in packaging procurement within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in business, engineering, supply chain, or a related field.
• Strong commercial and negotiation skills, with experience managing complex supplier agreements.
• Ability to operate strategically in a global, cross‑functional, matrix organisation.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder‑management abilities.

Required skills

• Commercial negotiation
• Strategic sourcing
• Supplier relationship management
• Risk management
• Regulatory and GxP compliance awareness