Procurement Director (Pharmaceuticals) - Temp to Perm

Location: Remote
Contract: Initial contract (freelance/temporary) with strong possibility to transition to permanent

Are you an experienced procurement leader looking for a new challenge within a fast‑growing pharmaceutical environment? I'm partnering with a highly respected pharmaceutical client who is expanding their operations and seeking a Procurement Director to lead strategic sourcing, supplier performance, and category management across both clinical and commercial supply chains.

This role begins on a temporary/freelance basis, offering flexibility and immediate impact, with the clear intention to transition into a permanent leadership position for the right candidate.

About the Role

As Procurement Director, you will play a critical part in shaping and driving my client's procurement strategy. You'll lead sourcing for direct materials (API, excipients, packaging, CMOs) and indirect services (CROs, labs, technology, facilities), ensuring operational continuity, regulatory compliance, and best‑in‑class supplier management.

You will work cross‑functionally with Clinical Operations, Quality, Manufacturing, Regulatory, Finance, and senior leadership-making this a high‑visibility, high‑impact opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of procurement strategy across all categories.
• Oversee supplier identification, selection, onboarding, and performance management.
• Drive complex contract negotiations including MSAs, SOWs, CDAs, and service agreements with CROs, CMOs, and essential vendors.
• Improve procurement governance, policies, and compliance in line with GxP/GMP expectations.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support clinical programs, new product launches, and supply chain optimisation initiatives.
• Mentor and develop a small but growing procurement team.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• 10+ years of procurement experience within pharmaceuticals, biotech, or another regulated life sciences sector.
• Strong background in category management and external supplier strategy.
• Proven success negotiating contracts within clinical or commercial supply chains.
• Solid understanding of regulatory frameworks (GxP, GMP, GDP).
• Excellent stakeholder management and the ability to influence senior teams.
• Comfortable stepping into a growing organisation and shaping processes.
• Available quickly for temp/freelance engagement with interest in long‑term, permanent progression.

Why This Role?

✅ Opportunity to join a dynamic, growing pharmaceutical organisation
✅ High strategic influence across global operations
✅ Temp‑to‑perm structure offering flexibility + long‑term stability
✅ Work closely with executive leadership
✅ Shape a procurement function during a key phase of growth

If you're a procurement leader who thrives in fast‑paced, mission‑driven environments, I'd love to discuss this opportunity with you.