Global Category Manager, Implants

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.   

What will you be doing?

• Oversee day‑to‑day supplier management activities, ensuring consistent execution of sourcing strategies, compliance, and performance expectations.

• Lead sourcing decisions within assigned categories, support the NPD process, implement supplier and part strategies, and continuously monitor supplier performance.

• Collaborate closely with ‘PEER’ Category Managers, product development teams, and cross‑functional partners across Global Operations to align sourcing decisions with business needs.

• Provide expert supplier guidance to ensure adherence to best practices, compliance requirements, pricing expectations, and delivery standards.

• Analyze total spending, pricing structures, commercial terms, and market trends across raw materials, components, semi‑finished goods, and finished goods to inform sourcing strategies.

• Leverage deep market knowledge, including cost drivers and supply/demand dynamics, to strengthen sourcing decisions and enhance Smith+Nephew’s 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.

• Work collaboratively with business leaders, suppliers, and customers to create innovative sourcing arrangements that reduce cost and risk; negotiate complex contracts for strategic materials.

• Develop a strong understanding of Smith+Nephew’s product lines, market strategy, competitive landscape, and technologies to effectively link raw material costs to product pricing.

• Lead cross‑functional initiatives to identify, qualify, negotiate, and successfully onboard new suppliers; apply manufacturing process knowledge to ensure supply continuity, cost deflation, and profitability.

• Build strong cross‑functional relationships with key stakeholders in Manufacturing Operations, Quality Compliance, Engineering, Supplier Quality, Finance, and Regulatory.

• Apply Six Sigma and Lean methodologies to drive continuous improvement in sourcing processes, supplier productivity, and supplier development initiatives.

• Manage complex projects and supplier relationships while implementing programs that drive QCDD performance and reduce operational and supply‑chain risk.                       

• Respond promptly and effectively to internal and external SCN activity, NCRs, and audit findings related to supplier management partnering with our Supplier Quality Team.                                                                     

• Analyze cost structures and cost‑planning data to develop and execute cost‑reduction strategies that meet financial targets while mitigating supplier risk; accountable for standard budget development and PPV savings performance.                                                                   

• 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. Continuously research and monitor industry trends in sourcing, technology, and market pricing.                                                                                      

• Operate with a strong sense of urgency and accountability, following up consistently to ensure manufacturing requirements and business objectives are met or exceeded.               

• Negotiate high‑value, complex components, or critical materials, using strategic, value‑driven methodologies that support long‑term business goals.                                   

• Proactively identify and communicate risks or delays in onboarding critical suppliers, focusing on any instances of non‑conformance with required standards.                                 

• Influence internal stakeholders by implementing procurement strategies that deliver the lowest total cost while maintaining competitive service levels.

What will you need to be successful?

Education: Bachelor’s 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: +5 years of experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, procurement, or supply‑chain 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 Requirements:  Travel up to 25% may be required.

You. Unlimited.

We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.

• Inclusion + Belonging: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving. Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website https://www.smith-nephew.com
• Your Future: Generous annual bonus and pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options.
• Work/Life Balance: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities!
• Your Wellbeing: Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more.
• Flexibility: Hybrid Working Model (For most professional roles).
• Training: Hands-On, Team-Customised, Mentorship.