Head of Procurement & Contracting - Materials

Job Overview

This leadership role involves designing and managing the sourcing strategy for direct and engineering materials procurement to ensure quality production and support business growth and profitability goals within the O2C framework.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop procurement strategy aligned with internal policies and collaborate with the GMS team to establish the Annual Operating Plan (AOP).
• Lead implementation of procurement functional plans and monitor achievement against AOP targets.
• Partner with leadership to identify and plan for new initiatives and operational demands.
• Engage in budgeting cycles, input budget allocations, and oversee efficient budget deployment with minimal variance.
• Continuously track industry developments and apply best practices to improve procurement operations.
• Ensure timely and cost-effective procurement of products and spares that meet the required quality standards.
• Work closely with business and technology teams to drive cost optimization and maximize value.
• Monitor exceptions, key performance indicators, and enforce necessary corrective actions.
• Oversee inventory levels and lead times to maintain optimal safety stock and timely replenishment.
• Handle supplier disputes and escalations to ensure timely resolution and commercial settlements.
• Lead GST and tax structure compliance efforts to maximize credit benefits and educate team members.
• Regularly review and update the Master Supplier List.
• Drive strategic long-term contracts with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
• Support technical service initiatives for chemical and catalyst performance improvements to reduce costs.
• Identify and evaluate potential suppliers following prescribed procedures, ensuring adherence to evaluation standards.
• Maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, engaging their senior management and providing necessary support.
• Assess supplier performance against agreements and develop improvement plans when needed.
• Communicate performance expectations and feedback clearly to suppliers.
• Develop and enforce procurement policies, processes, and procedures in compliance with internal and legislative requirements.
• Promote continuous improvement and innovation, adapting to changing standards and business needs.
• Manage non-compliance cases and recommend process enhancements to reduce occurrences.
• Keep abreast of technological advancements and guide the team towards digital procurement technology adoption.
• Monitor geopolitical, supplier, location, and currency risks impacting procurement and prepare contingency plans.
• Ensure preparedness for emergencies like natural disasters or geopolitical events to maintain procurement continuity and minimize plant disruptions.
• Enforce adherence to health, safety, environment (HSE), and company regulations among suppliers.
• Ensure timely resolution of audit findings within stipulated timelines.
• Lead recruitment, retention, and engagement initiatives of the procurement team.
• Set objectives, conduct performance appraisals, provide feedback, and mentor team members for increased responsibility.
• Identify training needs and recommend learning programs to enhance team skills.

Success Metrics

• Timeliness of order placements and procurement deliveries.
• Prompt supplier payments.
• Closure of audit points within timelines.
• Full compliance with procurement policies, SOPs, and systems.
• Achievement of training hours targets for the team.

Stakeholder Interaction

Collaborate internally with manufacturing, business units, EXIM, logistics, finance controls & accounts, technology, and legal teams. Externally engage with suppliers, consultants, freight forwarders, and shipping lines.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or an equivalent field, preferably Chemical, Mechanical, Instrumentation, or Electrical engineering.
• Master's degree in management or equivalent preferred.
• Over 25 years of total professional experience, including at least 5-7 years in a leadership capacity. Experience in plant operations, maintenance, or projects is preferred.

Knowledge & Competencies

• Expertise in sourcing and procurement strategies, products, and industry practices.
• Familiarity with digital procurement and sourcing systems.
• In-depth knowledge of legislative and regulatory requirements relevant to procurement.
• Understanding of standard contractual terms and commercial aspects including taxes, duties, and trade agreements.
• Strong business and commercial acumen.

Career Progression

Typically progresses from a Senior Team Lead role in Materials and can advance to Chief Procurement Officer positions.