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Posted 4 weeks agoGlobal Category Manager, Implants (US Memphis)
Memphis, United StatesHybrid
Responsibilities
- Lead sourcing decisions within assigned categories, support the NPD process, implement supplier and part strategies, and continuously monitor supplier performance.
- Collaborate closely with âPEERâ Category Managers, product development teams, and crossâfunctional partners across Global Operations to align sourcing decisions with business needs.
- Analyze total spending, pricing structures, commercial terms, and market trends across raw materials, components, semiâfinished goods, and finished goods to inform sourcing strategies.
- Work collaboratively with business leaders, suppliers, and customers to create innovative sourcing arrangements that reduce cost and risk; negotiate complex contracts for strategic materials.
- Lead crossâfunctional initiatives to identify, qualify, negotiate, and successfully onboard new suppliers; apply manufacturing process knowledge to ensure supply continuity, cost deflation, and profitability.
- Build strong crossâfunctional relationships with key stakeholders in Manufacturing Operations, Quality Compliance, Engineering, Supplier Quality, Finance, and Regulatory.
- Manage complex projects and supplier relationships while implementing programs that drive QCDD performance and reduce operational and supplyâchain risk.
- Analyze cost structures and costâplanning data to develop and execute costâreduction strategies that meet financial targets while mitigating supplier risk; accountable for standard budget development and PPV savings performance.
- Continuously research and monitor industry trends in sourcing, technology, and market pricing.
- Negotiate highâvalue, complex components, or critical materials, using strategic, valueâdriven methodologies that support longâterm business goals.
- Proactively identify and communicate risks or delays in onboarding critical suppliers, focusing on any instances of nonâconformance with required standards.
- Influence internal stakeholders by implementing procurement strategies that deliver the lowest total cost while maintaining competitive service levels.
Requirements
- Develop a strong understanding of Smith+Nephewâs product lines, market strategy, competitive landscape, and technologies to effectively link raw material costs to product pricing.
- Develop deep understanding of assigned commodities , including parts, processes, and supplier capabilities, and support supplier/part strategy execution to ensure successful integration into new product launches.
- Education : Bachelorâs degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field; advanced MS degree desired.
- Licenses/ Certifications: Certifications (e.g., CPM, CPSM, APICS, Six Sigma).
- experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement, or supplyâchain operations within a manufacturing or regulated industry; medical device experience is a strong advantage.
- Proficiency with ERP(SAP )/MRP systems, and procurement tools, along with strong skills in MS Suite XLS/PPT/DOC and as well as data/market analysis tools Spend Management (SIEVO). Technology AI
- experience within in procurement systems is preferred.
- Competences: Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities , including cost analysis, financial acumen, project management skills, and a solid understanding of contract structures and terms.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills , with the ability to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels and build strong supplier partnerships.
- Deep knowledge of direct material categories , including forging, casting, machining, finishing, polishing, and associated secondary operations.
- Strong understanding of commodity inputs , such as titanium, stainless steel, cobalt chrome, and zirconium, and how these materials impact cost, supply, and product strategy. Proven
- experience in supplier selection, qualification, negotiation, and performance management , including onboarding new suppliers and managing complex or global supply categories.
- Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and the ability to evaluate supplier capabilities to ensure supply continuity, cost deflation, and operational performance. Travel
Experience
- Experience : +5 years of
Benefits
- What will you need to be successful? This position is not offering any type of visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future.
- Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Options, Tuition Reimbursement Work/Life Balance: Flexible Personal/Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (Employer Contribution of $500+ annually), Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program Training: Hands-On, Team-Customized, Mentorship Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel and
Contact
- Inclusion and Belonging- Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (https://www.smith-nephew.com/).
Additional details
- At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.
- What will you be doing? Oversee dayâtoâday supplier management activities , ensuring consistent execution of sourcing strategies, compliance, and performance expectations.
- Provide expert supplier guidance to ensure adherence to best practices, compliance requirements, pricing expectations, and delivery standards.
- Leverage deep market knowledge, including cost drivers and supply/demand dynamics, to strengthen sourcing decisions and enhance Smith+Nephewâs competitive position.
- Set strategic direction for global component sourcing , including castings and forgings for medical devices, and align with the Category Manager for global raw material strategies as needed.
- Partner with Global Procurement and Operations to develop and execute global commodity strategies where applicable.
- Apply Six Sigma and Lean methodologies to drive continuous improvement in sourcing processes, supplier productivity, and supplier development initiatives.
- Respond promptly and effectively to internal and external SCN activity, NCRs, and audit findings related to supplier management partnering with our Supplier Quality Team.
- Operate with a strong sense of urgency and accountability , following up consistently to ensure manufacturing
- requirements and business objectives are met or exceeded.