Head of Procurement

Role

Purpose:

The Head of Procurement, also known as the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) or Director of Procurement, is a senior executive responsible for overseeing and managing an organization's procurement functions. The role involves strategic planning, leadership, and coordination of the procurement department to ensure efficient and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services.

• Develop and implement the organization's procurement strategy in alignment with overall business objectives.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of procurement professionals.
• Provide guidance on procurement policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and conditions to secure favorable agreements.
• Evaluate and monitor supplier performance to ensure compliance with contracts and service level agreements.
• Identify cost‑saving opportunities and implement strategies to optimize procurement processes.
• Analyze market trends and economic indicators to make informed purchasing decisions.
• Assess and mitigate risks related to procurement activities.
• Implement risk management strategies to ensure the continuity of the supply chain.
• Ensure adherence to legal and regulatory requirements in procurement activities.
• Promote ethical behavior and compliance with the organization's code of conduct.
• Continuously evaluate and improve procurement processes for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Develop and manage the procurement budget.
• Implement best practices and technology solutions to streamline procurement operations.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as finance, operations, and legal, to ensure alignment and coordination.
• Generate and present regular reports on procurement activities, cost savings, and key performance indicators to senior leadership.
• Stay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and best practices in procurement.
• Develop contingency plans to address procurement challenges during emergencies or disruptions in the supply chain.

• Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Proven working experience as a Procurement Manager, Procurement Officer or Head of Procurement.
• Knowledge of sourcing and procurement techniques as well as a dexterity in “reading” the market.
• Familiarity with procurement software and technology.
• Understanding of legal and regulatory requirements related to procurement contracts.

• Strong decision‑making skills and the capacity to make tough choices when necessary.
• Strategic planning and execution of procurement initiatives aligned with organizational goals.
• Strong negotiation skills to secure favourable terms and agreements with suppliers.
• Understanding of financial principles and budget management.
• Ability in building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Expertise in drafting, negotiating, and managing contracts.
• Data‑driven decision‑making using analytical tools and techniques.