Associate Director, EMEA Procurement

At AstraZeneca, we are a global, science-led, patient-centric biopharmaceutical leader dedicated to creating life-changing medicines for some of the world’s most serious conditions. Beyond being one of the top pharmaceutical companies globally, we are a diverse and dynamic team with a passion for innovation and collaboration.

We are seeking a proactive and strategic-minded Procurement Associate Director to contribute to our European hubs in Barcelona and Lisbon. This role is essential in driving procurement excellence across key indirect spend categories. You will work closely with the Director of EU Country Managers and engage collaboratively with the EMEA Regional Category Management Team. Your efforts will ensure the successful execution of category plans through robust, collaborative relationships with both internal teams and external partners.

Accountabilities

• Deliver innovative and effective procurement solutions to meet business needs in Barcelona and Lisbon.
• Participate actively in annual budget planning.
• Implement category plans that enhance processes and improve business value aligning with strategic priorities.
• Collaborate with Regional and Country Procurement Managers and key stakeholders for effective strategy execution.
• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans in cooperation with the Director of Regional Category Management EMEA.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with suppliers and internal teams to ensure alignment with business goals.
• Oversee supplier performance to ensure service levels and value are met.
• Identify and act on improvement opportunities within your area of responsibility.
• Advise on procurement activities and maintain compliance with procurement policies.
• Address procurement issues highlighted in audit reports.
• Negotiate and manage contracts for complex services with both new and existing suppliers.
• Foster strong relationships with suppliers and cross-functional teams.

Essential Skills/Experience

• A degree or equivalent experience.
• Significant experience in procurement or a similar environment.
• Strong project management, change management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical industry.
• Expertise in at least one procurement area, with proficiency in multiple areas.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to influence and collaborate.
• Ability to navigate risk and ambiguity with intercultural awareness.
• Proficiency in procurement and business systems like ERP, Coupa, etc.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Extensive project management experience.
• Experience in market procurement or regional/global category management roles.
• Proven ability to work within complex matrix organizations.
• Familiarity with managing indirect/commercial categories.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

Play your part in impacting patients' lives. Take this chance to help us fulfill our purpose by pushing the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines. Feel a sense of pride as you help to optimize our Procurement ecosystem of partners across the value chain to ultimately maximize patient outcomes. Our meaningful work means we're always committed to doing the right thing.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now!

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.