Head of Procurement

Academic & Professional Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Procurement & Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Procurement & Supply Chain Management or a related discipline.

• Professional certification (e.g., CPSP, CIPS, KISM or equivalent).

• Membership in a recognized professional procurement body.

• Proficiency in ERP and e-procurement systems.

Experience

• Minimum of seven (7) years’ relevant experience in procurement and supply chain management, preferably within a large institution or university setting.

• At least three (3) years in a senior procurement leadership role.

• Demonstrated experience in managing complex procurement processes, including tendering and contract management.

1. Procurement Planning and Operations
   

   • Oversee and streamline the processing of purchase requisitions and purchase orders (including electronic procurement systems) to ensure timely and accurate procurement.
   

   • Ensure procurement activities are aligned with approved budgets, plans, and institutional priorities.
   

   • Monitor procurement cycles to enhance efficiency and service delivery across departments.
   

2. Policy, Compliance, and Governance
   

   • Develop, review, and enforce procurement policies, standard operating procedures, and guidelines in line with regulatory requirements and best practices.
   

   • Ensure full compliance with the University’s Procurement and Asset Disposal Policy and applicable legal frameworks.
   

   • Maintain audit-ready procurement systems, documentation, and records.
   

3. Strategic Sourcing and Cost Management
   

   • Develop and implement sourcing strategies that drive cost reduction, cost containment, and quality assurance within the supply chain.
   

   • Lead supplier negotiations to secure favorable pricing, terms, and extended credit facilities where appropriate.
   

   • Promote value-for-money principles in all procurement decisions.
   

4. Vendor Management and Supplier Relations
   

   • Oversee supplier identification, evaluation, prequalification, and performance management processes.
   

   • Build and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliability and quality of goods and services.
   

   • Conduct due diligence and risk assessments on vendors to mitigate procurement risks.
   

5. Tendering and Contract Management
   

   • Manage and oversee the tendering process, ensuring fairness, transparency, and adherence to university policies.
   

   • Ensure appropriate contracting for high-value and high-risk procurements, including consultancies and capital projects.
   

   • Monitor contract performance and compliance with agreed terms and conditions.
   

6. Inventory and Asset Management
   

   • Provide oversight on inventory control systems and stock management practices.
   

   • Ensure periodic and annual stock-taking exercises are conducted and variances addressed.
   

   • Advise on optimal stock levels to balance operational efficiency and cost control.
   

7. International Procurement and Logistics
   

   • Coordinate procurement from international vendors, ensuring compliance with import regulations and applicable laws.
   

   • Liaise with clearing agents and relevant authorities to facilitate timely clearance of goods.
   

8. Financial Stewardship and Controls
   

   • Advise departments on procurement budgets, utilization, and variances.
   

   • Promote controlled purchasing practices, including minimizing the use of petty cash for procurement.
   

   • Ensure verification of supplier invoices to support timely and accurate payment processing.
   

9. Risk Management and Advisory
   

   • Identify emerging procurement risks and trends and provide strategic advice to University management.
   

   • Implement risk mitigation measures across procurement processes and supplier engagements.
   

10. Capacity Building and Continuous Improvement
    

    • Lead continuous professional development and training initiatives for procurement staff.
    

    • Promote adoption of best practices, innovation, and continuous improvement within the procurement function.
    

    • Conduct market research and disseminate insights to support informed decision-making.