Jobs / Anonymized summary

Head of Vendor Management

Confidential employer · Norway · Posted 16 Oct 2026

Job summary

Lead and develop a centralized vendor management and procurement strategy within the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector, ensuring quality, compliance, and operational excellence. Partner with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to optimize supplier relationships and drive cost efficiency in an international setting.

Location and work setup

Location
Norway
Work setup
Remote

Responsibilities

Shape and execute a strategic vendor management approach, overseeing the entire vendor lifecycle from sourcing to offboarding. Develop and maintain strategic supplier partnerships, negotiate contracts, and ensure compliance with quality and regulatory standards. Drive vendor governance, risk mitigation, financial management, and continuous improvement initiatives. Collaborate across business functions including Commercial, Quality Assurance, Legal, and Finance to align vendor services with organizational goals, enhance operational efficiency, and support sustainable growth. Mentor and lead the vendor management team to build capabilities and consistent practices.

Qualifications

Significant experience in vendor management, procurement, or strategic sourcing within regulated environments such as life sciences or pharmaceuticals. Proven ability to manage complex vendor networks and contracts, with strong knowledge of compliance and risk management. Demonstrated leadership skills in stakeholder engagement, commercial negotiation, and driving continuous improvements. Strong analytical, financial, and project management competencies. Experience working in fast-paced international organizations is preferred. Knowledge of pharmacovigilance and vendor management systems is a plus.

Skills

vendor managementprocurementstrategic sourcingoutsourcingpartnership managementcontract negotiationsupplier governancerisk managementcompliancequality assurancefinancial acumenbudgetingforecastingstakeholder managementleadershipproject managementcontinuous improvement