Smith+Nephew

Global Category Leader - Machining, Plastics, and Sutures

United States · Work style not stated · Full time

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About the role

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EmployerSmith+Nephew
LocationUnited States
Work styleWork style not stated
Employment typeFull time
Employer posted29 May 2026

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

Are you a strategic procurement leader who thrives on global impact? As our Global Category Leader – Machining, Plastics, and Sutures, you will play a critical role in shaping global sourcing strategies that support innovative medical technologies used by patients around the world. This is a senior, highly visible role where you will influence cost, supply resilience, and supplier innovation across complex manufacturing categories, partnering closely with global operations, engineering, and business leaders.

What will you be doing?

Develop and execute multiyear global category strategies aligned to business and product roadmaps
Lead global sourcing activities including RFx events, supplier negotiations, and contract management
Drive cost reduction, cash improvement, and supply resilience initiatives across machining, plastics, and sutures
Own supplier segmentation, consolidation, performance governance, and risk mitigation strategies
Apply should cost modeling, value engineering, and market intelligence to optimize sourcing decisions
Monitor global supply and demand dynamics, cost drivers, and capacity risks
Collaborate cross functionally with operations, engineering, R&D, and finance to support manufacturing and product strategies
Lead supplier development and innovation programs, including best cost country sourcing
Support new product introductions by guiding supplier selection, qualification, and material strategies
Lead, develop, and coach a global team of category managers and specialists
Represent the category in executive forums and global sourcing councils

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What will you need to be successful?

5 to 10 years of progressive experience in strategic procurement or category management, preferably within medical device manufacturing or a regulated environment
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, Economics, Finance, Statistics, or a related field, or equivalent experience
Strong knowledge of direct materials and commodity driven manufacturing categories
Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate business strategy into sourcing outcomes
Proven experience leading global supplier negotiations and managing complex contracts
Strong analytical, financial, and project management skills with high learning agility
Experience leading and developing teams in a global, matrixed environment
Fluency in English, with additional languages preferred
Proficiency in SAP, Ariba, and Microsoft Office
Ability to influence, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts across diverse stakeholder groups
Commitment to high standards of ethics, compliance, and health, safety, and environmental practices

You. Unlimited.

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

Inclusion and Belonging - Committed to welcoming, celebrating, and thriving on inclusion and belonging. Learn more about Employee Inclusion Groups on our website.

Your Future: 401k Matching Program, 401k Plus Program, Discounted Stock Purchase Plan, Tuition Reimbursement
Work Life Balance: Flexible Personal and Vacation Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flex Holidays, Paid Community Service Day
Your Wellbeing: Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account with employer contribution, Employee Assistance Program, Parental Leave, Fertility and Adoption Assistance Program
Flexibility: Hybrid Work Model for most professional roles
Training: Hands on, team customized learning and mentorship
Extra Perks: Discounts on fitness clubs, travel, and more!

The anticipated base compensation range for this position is $119,500 - $207,250 USD annually (or hourly) The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range for their role at Smith + Nephew. Compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate. In addition to base pay, we provide competitive bonus and benefits, which include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401k, tuition reimbursement, medical leave programs, parental leave, and generous PTO, paid company holidays annually and 8 hours of Volunteer time and a variety of wellness offerings such as EAP.

Smith+Nephew provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

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We're more than just a company - we're a community! Follow us on LinkedIn to see how we support and empower our employees and patients every day.

Check us out on Glassdoor for a glimpse behind the scenes and a sneak peek into You. Unlimited., life, culture, and benefits at S+N.

Explore our website and learn more about our mission, our team, and the opportunities we offer.

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