Associate Director Supplier Relationship Management

Job Title: Associate Director, Supplier Relationship Management
Location: Dublin, Ireland

The Company

A leading global pharmaceutical organisation, dedicated to improving patient outcomes through innovation in medicines, is seeking an Associate Director, Supplier Relationship Management. The company has a significant international footprint and partners with a wide network of Contract Manufacturing Organisations (CMOs) across both API and Drug Product.

The Role

The Associate Director will play a key role in developing and executing the Operations Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) model across the external supply network. This position is highly visible, requiring leadership of supplier governance, oversight of external partners, and strong collaboration with Technical Operations, Quality, Regulatory and Supply Chain functions.

Key responsibilities include:

• Acting as the Relationship Manager for key suppliers (API, Drug Product, Packaging, Components).
• Leading supplier performance management through KPIs, scorecards, and robust business reviews.
• Ensuring contract compliance, risk management, and supply continuity across the global external network.
• Partnering closely with Technical Operations on technology transfer, supplier selection, and network optimisation.
• Facilitating cross-functional Supplier Relationship Management Teams (SRMTs) and Joint Operations Teams (JOTs) to drive operational performance.
• Supporting Quality, EHSS, and Supply Chain initiatives to ensure regulatory compliance and operational excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, or related field.
• 10 plus years in the pharmaceutical/life sciences sector, with at least 7 years in external operations, supplier management, or CMO leadership roles.
• Strong Technical Operations background across API and Drug Product CMOs is essential.
• Demonstrated leadership of global supplier networks, including contract negotiation and lifecycle management.
• Deep understanding of GMP manufacturing processes, regulatory frameworks, and quality systems.
• Proven ability to lead complex cross-functional initiatives, manage risk, and ensure supply continuity.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels.

The Next Step for you:

Should this position be of interest to you please forward your CV to Sarah Mac Mullan from Next Generation Recruitment or alternatively call on the main line on 00 353 1 6498546

Next Generation are specialists in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Quality, Technical and Operation (permanent, contract and temporary) positions.

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