Procurement Manager

Role Overview

This position leads the procurement function for a business unit, turning complex purchasing needs into compliant, cost-effective contracting outcomes. You will spend your time shaping sourcing strategies, overseeing tenders from specification to award, advising project managers on procurement rules, and managing a team of procurement professionals. Your judgment directly affects whether goods, services, and works are acquired with integrity, transparency, and the best possible value for money.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement procurement strategies for goods, services, and works, translating organisational priorities into actionable sourcing plans with clear cost-saving targets.
• Provide authoritative advice on procurement policy, helping leadership and project teams navigate complex cases and apply the correct rules and instruments.
• Supervise end-to-end procurement processes, including preparation of solicitation documents, receipt and evaluation of bids or proposals, and negotiation of contract conditions.
• Review and pre-clear procurement submissions before they go to contract and property committees, ensuring full compliance with governance and control requirements.
• Develop and maintain rosters of pre-qualified suppliers, and oversee supplier selection, performance evaluation, and quality monitoring mechanisms.
• Drive adoption of e-procurement tools and sourcing platforms, ensuring they are used consistently and effectively across the business unit.
• Lead training and knowledge-sharing initiatives for procurement personnel, building internal capacity and capturing lessons learned from completed procurements.
• Manage the procurement team through work planning, performance reviews, coaching, and active compliance oversight.

Requirements & Qualifications

• An advanced university degree (master’s) in procurement, supply chain management, law, commerce, business administration, public administration, finance, economics, or a related field, plus at least five years of relevant professional experience.
• A first-level university degree (bachelor’s) in a relevant discipline combined with seven years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in place of the advanced degree.
• A minimum of five years of experience advising on and implementing procurement policies and procedures across complex, high-value programmes.
• A minimum of five years of experience managing complex procurement cases and leading teams composed of both local and international staff.
• Strong working knowledge of procurement risk management, supplier relationship management, and the application of sustainability criteria in sourcing decisions.
• Familiarity with web-based management systems, enterprise procurement platforms, and the Microsoft Office suite.
• A CIPS Level 4 or equivalent international certification is a distinct advantage, particularly for candidates without a formal procurement or supply chain degree.
• Knowledge of UN procurement rules and regulations, including emergency procurement procedures, is a distinct advantage.
• Experience in infrastructure procurement, work in developing countries, or hardship locations is highly valued.