Procurement Manager

Role Overview

This position puts you in charge of the entire buying function at Nairobi Central Hardware Ltd, from identifying reliable suppliers to making sure the right materials reach the business on time. You will balance cost control with quality, keep stock at healthy levels, and work closely with internal teams to support day-to-day operations. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, you will be the person responsible for making procurement a smooth, transparent, and commercially sound part of the company.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies and policies that align with the company’s operational goals, then manage purchasing workflows from requisition through to final delivery.
• Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers using clear criteria around price, product quality, reliability, and delivery performance.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with key suppliers, negotiate contract terms and pricing, and proactively resolve any disputes or performance issues that arise.
• Monitor inventory levels and trigger stock replenishment at the right time, coordinating with warehouse and logistics teams to avoid delays or shortages.
• Analyze market trends and price movements to uncover cost-saving opportunities, then implement controls that protect margins without lowering product standards.
• Maintain accurate procurement records, track price changes, and prepare regular reports on purchasing activity, supplier performance, and other key metrics.
• Identify supply chain risks, including seasonal availability and potential stock-outs, and build contingency plans to ensure continuity even when markets are volatile.
• Work closely with internal departments to understand their purchasing needs and provide guidance on procurement best practices to support their objectives.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.
• Professional procurement certification such as CIPS is an added advantage.
• At least 3 years of procurement experience, ideally within the hardware or building materials sector.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence suppliers and collaborate with colleagues at all levels.
• Hands-on proficiency with procurement software and the Microsoft Office Suite, including experience using Tally; ERP experience is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a sharp eye for detail and the ability to interpret pricing and inventory data accurately.
• Demonstrated leadership capability and the ability to take ownership of procurement decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Solid knowledge of local procurement regulations and compliance requirements.
• Fluency in English, Kiswahili, Gujarati, and Hindi is required to support communication with a diverse range of suppliers and stakeholders.