Category Lead - R&D Procurement (Laboratory Services)

Category Lead - R&D Procurement (Laboratory Services)

Global Scope Strategic Role High Visibility Location: London (Hybrid)

Salary: £70,000-£90,000 + car allowance + shares + bonus up to 30%

Are you a commercially driven procurement leader looking to make a tangible impact across global R&D operations?

We are partnering with a leading global organisation seeking a Category Lead - R&D Procurement (Laboratory Services) to take ownership of a critical Lab Services category supporting R&D and QC laboratories worldwide.

This is a high-impact, strategic role where you will shape global category strategy, influence senior stakeholders, and drive measurable value across quality, service, innovation, and cost.

The Opportunity You will:

• Own and deliver global sourcing strategy across instrument services, technical & general lab services, and laboratory technology
• Lead complex supplier negotiations and contract management activity
• Partner with senior R&D and Supply Chain leaders to align procurement strategy with business priorities
• Drive supplier performance, leverage global scale, and unlock continuous improvement opportunities
• Navigate a complex, multi-country environment requiring strong cultural awareness and stakeholder engagement

What We're Looking For:

• Strong procurement/category management experience within laboratory, scientific services, or closely related technical categories
• Proven track record in leading complex negotiations and delivering strategic value
• Confident stakeholder manager, comfortable engaging and constructively challenging senior leaders
• Strong analytical mindset with a commercial, value-focused approach
• Degree-qualified (Master's advantageous)

This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a high-profile category in a truly global environment. You will have the autonomy to shape strategy, influence senior leaders, and make a lasting impact on how laboratory services are delivered worldwide.

If you are ambitious, commercially astute, and thrive in complex, fast-moving environments, this role based in Hertfordshire (hybrid) with a competitive total package of £70,000-£90,000 + car allowance, shares, and up to 30% bonus could be the perfect next step in your career.

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