Global Category Manager, Implants (US Memphis)

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

What will you be doing?

• Oversee day‑to‑day supplier management activities, ensuring consistent execution of sourcing strategies, compliance, and performance expectations.

• Lead sourcing decisions within assigned categories, support the NPD process, implement supplier and part strategies, and continuously monitor supplier performance.

• Collaborate closely with ‘PEER’ Category Managers, product development teams, and cross‑functional partners across Global Operations to align sourcing decisions with business needs.

• Provide expert supplier guidance to ensure adherence to best practices, compliance requirements, pricing expectations, and delivery standards.

• Analyze total spending, pricing structures, commercial terms, and market trends across raw materials, components, semi‑finished goods, and finished goods to inform sourcing strategies.

• Leverage deep market knowledge, including cost drivers and supply/demand dynamics, to strengthen sourcing decisions and enhance Smith+Nephew’s competitive position. 

• Set strategic direction for global component sourcing, including castings and forgings for medical devices, and align with the Category Manager for global raw material strategies as needed.

• Partner with Global Procurement and Operations to develop and execute global commodity strategies where applicable.

• Work collaboratively with business leaders, suppliers, and customers to create innovative sourcing arrangements that reduce cost and risk; negotiate complex contracts for strategic materials.

• Develop a strong understanding of Smith+Nephew’s product lines, market strategy, competitive landscape, and technologies to effectively link raw material costs to product pricing.

• Lead cross‑functional initiatives to identify, qualify, negotiate, and successfully onboard new suppliers; apply manufacturing process knowledge to ensure supply continuity, cost deflation, and profitability.

• Build strong cross‑functional relationships with key stakeholders in Manufacturing Operations, Quality Compliance, Engineering, Supplier Quality, Finance, and Regulatory.

• Apply Six Sigma and Lean methodologies to drive continuous improvement in sourcing processes, supplier productivity, and supplier development initiatives.

• Manage complex projects and supplier relationships while implementing programs that drive QCDD performance and reduce operational and supply‑chain risk.                       

• Respond promptly and effectively to internal and external SCN activity, NCRs, and audit findings related to supplier management partnering with our Supplier Quality Team.                                                                     

• Analyze cost structures and cost‑planning data to develop and execute cost‑reduction strategies that meet financial targets while mitigating supplier risk; accountable for standard budget development and PPV savings performance.                                                                   

• Develop deep understanding of assigned commodities, including parts, processes, and supplier capabilities, and support supplier/part strategy execution to ensure successful integration into new product launches. Continuously research and monitor industry trends in sourcing, technology, and market pricing.                                                                                      

• Operate with a strong sense of urgency and accountability, following up consistently to ensure manufacturing requirements and business objectives are met or exceeded.               

• Negotiate high‑value, complex components, or critical materials, using strategic, value‑driven methodologies that support long‑term business goals.                                   

• Proactively identify and communicate risks or delays in onboarding critical suppliers, focusing on any instances of non‑conformance with required standards.                                 

• Influence internal stakeholders by implementing procurement strategies that deliver the lowest total cost while maintaining competitive service levels.

What will you need