Manager, Strategic Sourcing & Vendor Management

Role Summary

The Manager of Strategic Sourcing & Vendor Management develops and executes sourcing strategies to support early-stage research activities, including Discovery, DMPK (Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics), Toxicology, and other areas as assigned. The role partners closely with scientific and operational stakeholders, including legal, finance, and quality, to ensure timely and cost-effective access to external capabilities, CROs, and suppliers aligned with scientific and business objectives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sourcing strategies for preclinical categories including in vivo/in vitro studies, bioanalytical services, toxicology testing, and compound management.
• Lead supplier selection, negotiation, and contracting processes for Discovery, DMPK, and Toxicology services.
• Maintain category knowledge and market intelligence to identify emerging capabilities and cost-saving opportunities.

• Collaborate with scientific and operational teams to understand project needs and translate them into sourcing strategies.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to all stakeholders, ensuring alignment between procurement and scientific/operational goals and objectives.

• Establish and manage relationships with key CROs and vendors.
• Monitor supplier performance and compliance with finance, legal, quality, and regulatory.
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation through supplier partnerships.

• Ensure timely execution of contracts and purchase orders.
• Support budgeting and forecasting for all preclinical outsourcing activities.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation.

• Ensure adherence to internal policies, legal requirements, and industry regulations.
• Mitigate risks related to supplier reliability, data integrity, and animal welfare.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Business, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in sourcing/procurement within the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, with a focus and emphasis on preclinical R&D and non-clinical.
• Strong understanding of Discovery, DMPK, and Toxicology workflows and vendor landscape.
• Proven negotiation and contract management skills.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and analytical abilities.
• Experience with contract lifecycle management systems.
• Familiarity with GLP/GCP regulations and animal welfare standards.
• Experience supporting early-stage drug development programs.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.