What are the responsibilities and job description for the Global Category Manager position at ZRG?
Job Description
ZRG Partners is conducting a confidential search on behalf of a global healthcare organization for two Global Category Managers to support a growing procurement function across Professional Services, R&D, and Technology.
These roles sit at the intersection of strategy and execution, driving global category initiatives while partnering closely with senior stakeholders across R&D, Clinical Operations, IT, Finance, and Commercial teams.
We are hiring for two distinct focus areas:
1) Global Category Manager – Technology & IT
This individual will lead sourcing and category strategy across IT, digital, and technology services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute category strategies across IT and technology spend
- Lead complex sourcing initiatives (software, digital services, IT consulting)
- Negotiate contracts, pricing models, and supplier agreements
- Partner with IT and digital stakeholders to align procurement strategy with business needs
- Drive supplier performance, innovation partnerships, and cost optimization
- Ensure compliance with procurement governance, risk, and financial controls
2) Global Category Manager – Professional Services & R&D
This individual will focus on R&D procurement, with a strong emphasis on clinical trials and scientific services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead sourcing and category strategy for R&D and clinical services spend
- Manage procurement across CROs, FSPs, and clinical trial vendors
- Negotiate MSAs, SOWs, and rate cards for clinical and scientific services
- Partner with R&D, Clinical Operations, and Medical Affairs teams
- Drive value creation across cost, speed to market, and access to specialized expertise
- Ensure compliance with regulatory and quality standards (GxP, ICH GCP, etc.)
Qualifications (Both Roles):
- 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing or category management
- Experience in global, matrixed organizations
- Strong negotiation and supplier management capabilities
- Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders
- Bachelor’s degree required
Additional Requirements by Focus Area:
Technology & IT:
- Experience sourcing IT, software, or digital services
- Familiarity with IT vendor ecosystems and commercial models
Professional Services & R&D:
- Must-have: experience in R&D procurement, specifically clinical trials / clinical services
- Strong understanding of CRO/FSP models and clinical KPIs
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks (GxP, ICH GCP)
Additional Information:
- Location: Lake Zurich, IL
- Travel: Up to 20% -- including some to European headquarters.
- This is a confidential search conducted by ZRG Partners. Additional details will be shared with qualified candidates.