Raw Material Category Manager - #144031

STADA UK Thornton & Ross is on an exciting growth journey with more than 700 employees being fully committed to our purpose of Caring for People’s Health as a Trusted Partner. Together we are shaping the future of Thornton & Ross by living our values of Integrity, Entrepreneurship, Agility and One STADA.

STADA UK Thornton & Ross - Raw Material Category Manager

Huddersfield | United Kingdom (GB) | Full-time | Permanent

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Raw Material Category Manager to lead procurement activities, optimize supplier relationships, and drive cost efficiency across our raw material supply chain in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

How You Will Make An Impact:

• Serve as the primary owner and expert for all Raw Material (Directs for Manufacturing) topics, ensuring timely communication and resolution of key issues.
• Lead sourcing, negotiation, and contracting activities across tactical and strategic spend areas.
• Monitor supplier performance, ensuring contractual compliance and leading improvement or mitigation initiatives as needed.
• Foster strong supplier relationships focused on quality, service, and cost improvements; drive capability and capacity development projects.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant procurement regulations and standards throughout the supplier lifecycle.
• Collaborate with Global Procurement to implement category strategies for Packaging, APIs, and Excipients.
• Deliver cost-saving initiatives, support operational efficiency programs (OPEX), and contribute to NPD projects and budgeting processes.
• Track procurement KPIs, manage risk mitigation plans, and ensure efficient PO-to-Pay processes for Directs transactions.
  
  

What We Are Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent industry experience, ideally within Pharmaceutical, Healthcare, or Food manufacturing.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a regulated manufacturing environment with a strong understanding of procurement processes.
• Demonstrated expertise in end-to-end procurement, with SAP experience preferred.
• Strong negotiation skills and proven ability to secure favorable supplier terms and manage contracts effectively.
• Solid understanding of contract law and industry regulations, with strong commercial and analytical acumen.
• Skilled in financial planning, budget management, and tracking procurement KPIs.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and interpersonal skills across all levels.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and teams under pressure.
  
  

How We Care For You:

At Thornton & Ross our purpose “Caring for people’s health as a trusted partner” motivates us every day. And what would be a better place than starting with our own employees. Which is why we give much in return:

Competitive salary and annual bonus scheme.

Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme offering 8% employer contribution rates.

Hybrid working – we spend three days of your choice in the office, with the remaining days working at home.

25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays with the potential to buy up to 5 additional days.

On-site subsidised canteen.

Health benefits provided through Vitality Private Medical Insurance.

Free winter flu jab.

Wellbeing support through our Employee Assistance Programme and KYAN Wellbeing – offering free coaching and counselling services for you and your family.

Electric Car Scheme through Octopus Energy, plus free on-site EV charging.

Cycle to Work Scheme.

Enhanced Family Leave.

Plus, many more employee benefits & celebration events.

STADA Group values and promotes its diverse culture, regardless of gender, age, social or ethnic origin, disabilities, religion, ideology, or sexual orientation. We use the strength of our uniqueness to develop creative ideas, expand our experience and increase innovative strength. Our focus is on equal opportunities, respectful cooperation, and the promotion of an inclusive working environment. We are looking forward to your application and welcome applications without a pharmaceutical background.