Director – Purchasing

About the role

A large-scale, service-oriented organization is looking for an experienced, commercially driven Director of Purchasing to lead and oversee purchasing activities, procurement strategies and supplier relationships. The role suits someone with a strong background in strategic sourcing, contract negotiations, cost optimization and leading procurement teams.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement purchasing strategies, policies and procedures aligned with organizational objectives.
• Oversee purchasing operations so goods, materials, equipment and services are procured on time and cost-effectively.
• Lead strategic sourcing, supplier selection, evaluation and performance management.
• Manage supplier negotiations, commercial agreements, contracts and long-term purchasing arrangements.
• Oversee purchasing budgets, expenditure, cost analysis and procurement performance indicators.
• Identify opportunities for cost optimization, process improvement and purchasing efficiency.
• Coordinate with operations, finance, inventory and other departments.
• Maintain strong relationships with local and international suppliers and ensure compliance with policies, quality standards and regulations.
• Lead, develop and manage the purchasing team, set performance objectives and monitor departmental effectiveness.
• Evaluate market trends, pricing and supply risks, and prepare reports, budget analyses and recommendations for senior management.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economics or Accounting.
• Minimum 17 years of relevant experience in purchasing or procurement.
• Proven leadership experience managing purchasing teams and departmental operations.
• Experience in aviation catering, food services, hospitality or other large-scale operational environments is an advantage.

Required skills

• Purchasing planning, supplier management, budgeting and cost control.
• Strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations and contract management.
• Strong commercial acumen, negotiation, analytical and decision-making skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management abilities.