Indirect Procurement Category Manager

As Global Category Manager – Science, you will drive development and execution of outsourcing strategies in partnership with Syngenta’s Seeds and Crop Protection R&D organizations. You will manage a global category with over $270M in spend, focusing on sourcing strategies, process improvement, effective contracting and supplier relationships. Your expertise will help deliver procurement innovation, mitigate risks and drive value to Syngenta’s R&D teams.

Responsibilities/Accountabilities include, but are not limited to;

• Lead the execution of the R&D Category Strategy for CROs, ensuring alignment with Syngenta’s business objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with R&D leadership, procurement colleagues, Legal, Finance and key suppliers at regional and global level.
• Provide strategic direction, coaching, and motivation to a geographically dispersed team.
• Analyze spend and market trends to identify opportunities for value creation and risk mitigation.
• Lead cross-functional, multinational sourcing projects and negotiations to secure contracts and deliver savings.
• Manage supplier relationships, including performance metrics (KPIs/SLAs), contract lifecycle, and annual pricing updates.
• Ensure operational compliance and manage third-party risk across all relevant procurement activities.
• Commit to Syngenta’s Leadership Behaviours: Collaborate, Courageous, Curiosity, Accountable.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven success in managing outsourcing within Scientific R&D (e.g., equipment, technology, consumables, chemicals, CRO services).
• Strategic thinker and effective problem solver.
• Strong project management and leadership skills, with experience leading cross-functional, international teams.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; able to influence senior stakeholders.
• Experience working in a multinational, multicultural environment.
• Advanced analytical skills and proficiency with data handling tools.
• Results-oriented with strong business acumen; thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Fluent in English; French and/or German are a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, or related science field, plus solid experience working within a leadership or operational management role in R&D, contract research organisations, or Indirect Procurement.

Occasional international travel will be required.

What we offer

• Extensive benefits package including a generous pension scheme, bonus scheme, private medical & life insurance.
• Up to 31.5 days annual holiday.
• Learning culture and wide range of training options.
• Excellent onsite facilities (gym, fitness classes, staff restaurant)

Syngenta has been ranked as a top 5 employer and number 1 in agriculture by Science Journal.