Head of Vendor Management / Associate Director

About the role

Lead the development and execution of a centralized vendor management strategy for an international pharmaceutical and life‑sciences organization based in the United Arab Emirates. You will shape supplier partnerships, ensure compliance and quality, and drive cost optimisation across the full vendor lifecycle.

Key responsibilities

• Define and implement a strategic, centralized vendor management and procurement approach aligned with business objectives.
• Oversee the entire vendor lifecycle – sourcing, qualification, onboarding, performance governance, and off‑boarding.
• Establish vendor governance frameworks, KPIs, service metrics and ensure audit‑ready documentation.
• Lead commercial negotiations, pricing strategies and cost‑optimisation initiatives.
• Collaborate with Legal, Quality, Finance and other functions to manage contracts and mitigate third‑party risk.
• Drive continuous‑improvement projects, process automation and vendor management system implementation.

Required profile

• Significant experience in vendor management, procurement or strategic sourcing within pharmaceutical, life‑sciences or regulated environments.
• Proven track record of building high‑performing supplier networks and negotiating large‑scale contracts.
• Strong analytical, financial and risk‑management skills with a collaborative leadership style.
• Experience working in fast‑paced, international, high‑growth organisations.

Required skills

• Vendor Management Systems (VMS) knowledge.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and procurement technology familiarity.
• Commercial negotiation and contract management expertise.

What we offer

• Flexible working arrangements.
• Professional development and career progression opportunities.
• Exposure to international clients and diverse project portfolios.
• Collaborative, knowledge‑sharing culture focused on patient safety.