Procurement Manager

Job Summary

The Procurement Manager is a strategic role responsible for identifying and onboarding new suppliers, leading sourcing activities, negotiating favourable terms & conditions and risk management of supply chain. This position involves driving new saving initiatives as a project manager and overseeing the operational purchasing process to ensure that all goods and services are delivered on time, in full (OTIF), and at the highest quality standards. In the modern landscape, the Procurement Manager also acts as a bridge between complex supply chain optimization tools and human stakeholders, utilizing advanced data to drive enterprise value. Compliance with all government regulations on usage of materials used in operation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Sourcing & Negotiation: Identify, evaluate, select reliable suppliers & vendors and negotiate with them to achieve competitive prices while maintaining high service levels to achieve cost savings. Identify alternate suppliers to mitigate risk and ensure supply chain resilience.  Negotiate with suppliers for compensation in event of quality or delivery issues.

2. Supplier Relationship Management (SRM): Build and maintain long-term partnerships with suppliers. Maintain the Approved External Provider List (AEPL) and conduct regular supplier audits and performance evaluations using Balanced Scorecards.  Co-operate with QA department to ensure corrective action on quality are done. Monitor supplier performance and ensure quality and timely delivery.

3. Operational Oversight: Process purchase requisitions and ensure Purchase Orders (POs) are issued according to company SOPs. Coordinate with logistics and planning departments to manage delivery schedules and minimize production downtime. Manage procurement budgets and track expenses by analysing market trends and identify cost-reduction opportunities.

4. Risk & Compliance Management: Identify and mitigate risks such as supply disruptions and price volatility. Ensure all suppliers comply with ethical standards, including Modern Day Slavery policies and environmental (ESG) requirements. Update on all new or amended regulations regularly.  Qualifies suppliers for risk diversification, obtains confirmation from suppliers on their compliance status to any amendments or new regulations. Collaborate with internal departments (finance, operations, logistics) to ensure compliance with company policies and legal regulations.

5. Process Optimization: Drive the digital transformation of procurement by utilizing AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) to interpret optimization outcomes and run "what-if" scenarios (e.g., cost changes when switching suppliers).

6. Quality Assurance: Follow up on Supplier Corrective Action Reports (SCARs) and ensure all goods meet ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and product safety standards.

7. Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with business goals, maintain accurate procurement records and documentation.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Material Science or Chemistry or related field

• Proven experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management

• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills

• Knowledge of procurement software and ERP systems

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities

• Strong communication and leadership skills

• Experience in strategic sourcing and contract management

• Familiarity with international sourcing and logistics

• Knowledge of management systems such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001.

Experience:

• At least 5 to 10 years of experience in a production, manufacturing, or complex supply chain environment

• Proven track record in sourcing, planning, and forecasting

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Office Applications (particularly Excel), etc

• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and digital procurement platforms

• Ability to use data analytics and AI-driven tools to explain optimization results to stakeholder

Key Skills and Personal Specifications

• Negotiation & cost management

• Supplier relationship management

• Strategic thinking

• Financial analysis

• Risk management

• Decision-making under pressure