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SM
Smith+Nephew

Global Category Leader - Machining, Plastics, and Sutures

LocationUS - Field
Work modehybrid
Typefull-time
SeniorityLead
Experience5–10 yrs
Company size10,000+ people
PostedMay 29, 2026 · 4mo ago
Verified live32m ago
At a glanceSummarised by Seekless from the posting.
Must have11
5 to 10 years of progressive experience in strategic procurement or category management, preferably within medical device manufacturing or a regulated environment
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, Economics, Finance, Statistics, or a related field, or equivalent experience
Strong knowledge of direct materials and commodity driven manufacturing categories
Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate business strategy into sourcing outcomes
Proven experience leading global supplier negotiations and managing complex contracts
Strong analytical, financial, and project management skills with high learning agility
Experience leading and developing teams in a global, matrixed environment
Fluency in English
Proficiency in SAP, Ariba, and Microsoft Office
Ability to influence, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts across diverse stakeholder groups
Commitment to high standards of ethics, compliance, and health, safety, and environmental practices
Nice to have1
Additional languages preferred
Skills
SAP
Ariba
Microsoft Office
Benefits
401(k) matching program
401(k) plus program
Discounted stock purchase plan
Tuition reimbursement
Flexible PTO
Paid holidays
Medical
Dental
Vision
Health savings account
Employee assistance program
Parental leave
Fertility assistance
Adoption assistance
Hybrid work model
Fitness discounts
Travel discounts
About the company
Life. Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
About the role
Are you a strategic procurement leader who thrives on global impact? As our Global Category Leader – Machining, Plastics, and Sutures, you will play a critical role in shaping global sourcing strategies that support innovative medical technologies used by patients around the world. This is a senior, highly visible role where you will influence cost, supply resilience, and supplier innovation across complex manufacturing categories, partnering closely with global operations, engineering, and business leaders.
What will you be doing?
•
Develop and execute multiyear global category strategies aligned to business and product roadmaps
•
Lead global sourcing activities including RFx events, supplier negotiations, and contract management
•
Drive cost reduction, cash improvement, and supply resilience initiatives across machining, plastics, and sutures
•
Own supplier segmentation, consolidation, performance governance, and risk mitigation strategies
•
Apply should cost modeling, value engineering, and market intelligence to optimize sourcing decisions
•
Monitor global supply and demand dynamics, cost drivers, and capacity risks
•
Collaborate cross functionally with operations, engineering, R&D, and finance to support manufacturing and product strategies
•
Lead supplier development and innovation programs, including best cost country sourcing
•
Support new product introductions by guiding supplier selection, qualification, and material strategies
•
Lead, develop, and coach a global team of category managers and specialists
•
Represent the category in executive forums and global sourcing councils
What will you need to be successful?
•
5 to 10 years of progressive experience in strategic procurement or category management, preferably within medical device manufacturing or a regulated environment
•
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, Economics, Finance, Statistics, or a related field, or equivalent experience
•
Strong knowledge of direct materials and commodity driven manufacturing categories
•
Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate business strategy into sourcing outcomes
•
Proven experience leading global supplier negotiations and managing complex contracts
•
Strong analytical, financial, and project management skills with high learning agility
•
Experience leading and developing teams in a global, matrixed environment
•
Fluency in English, with additional languages preferred
•
Proficiency in SAP, Ariba, and Microsoft Office
•
Ability to influence, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts across diverse stakeholder groups
•
Commitment to high standards of ethics, compliance, and health, safety, and environmental practices
You. Unlimited.
We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.
Inclusion and Belonging - Committed to welcoming, celebrating, and thriving on inclusion and belonging. Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website.
Benefits
Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Purchase Plan, Tuition Reimbursement
Work Life Balance: Flexible Personal and Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day
Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account with employer contribution, Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program
Flexibility: Hybrid Work Model for most professional roles
Training: Hands on, team customized learning and mentorship
Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel, and more!
The anticipated base compensation range for this position is $119,500 - $207,250 USD annually (or hourly) The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range for their role at Smith + Nephew. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate. In addition to base pay, we provide competitive bonus and benefits, which include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k, tuition reimbursement, medical leave programs, parental leave, and generous PTO, paid company holidays annually and 8 hours of Volunteer time and a variety of wellness offerings such as EAP.
Legal
Smith+Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
Stay connected by joining our Talent Community.
We’re more than just a company - we’re a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.
Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N.
Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.
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