Principal Supply Chain Management Officer

Role Overview

This senior supply chain management position directs the full procurement lifecycle, from policy formulation to contract execution and supplier performance review, for a public sector organisation. The role holder ensures that goods, works, and services are acquired on time, within budget, and in strict accordance with Kenya’s procurement laws and regulations. By doing so, they protect public funds, maintain transparent processes, and keep essential operations supplied without disruption.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate, roll out, and periodically update supply chain policies, procedures, strategies, and programmes to align with organisational goals and legal requirements.
• Lead the creation and execution of procurement plans and budgets, tying them to measurable outcomes and operational needs.
• Manage supplier sourcing activities, including requests for quotations, market research, and surveys to identify reliable vendors.
• Oversee the timely delivery of goods, services, and works, and authorise store requisitions for issuance.
• Supervise the preparation of purchase orders, secure required signatures, and forward procurement documents to the finance manager for payment processing.
• Compile and submit quarterly reports to the National Treasury and the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA), and coordinate procurement in line with the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, 2015, related circulars, and international best practices.
• Develop detailed tender specifications, performance standards, and contract terms for capital equipment, materials, and services, ensuring strict compliance with government procedures.
• Plan and execute cost-effective disposal of obsolete machinery, equipment, furniture, and salvage items, and assess supplier capability and performance while reviewing the procurement function’s progress and annual reports.

Requirements & Qualifications

• At least nine (9) years of cumulative experience in supply chain management or a related field, with a minimum of three (3) years serving at the grade of Senior Supply Chain Management Officer or an equivalent or comparable position.
• A bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement and Logistics, Commerce, Business Administration, Economics, or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
• Certified Procurement and Supply Professional of Kenya (CPSP-K) or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
• Active membership in the Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM) or an equivalent professional body, and in good standing.
• A valid practicing license.
• Completion of a management course lasting not less than four (4) weeks from a recognised institution.
• Proficiency in computer applications.
• Solid working knowledge of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, 2015, and related regulations, with demonstrated skill in supplier evaluation, contract drafting, and procurement planning.