Procurement Director - Supply Chain

Procurement Director – Supply ChainThe Procurement Director – Supply Chain is a senior strategic role responsible for shaping and executing the company’s global procurement and sourcing strategy to ensure efficiency, cost optimization, and supply continuity across all operations. This position plays a key part in driving business performance through strategic supplier partnerships, value creation, and innovation within the end-to-end supply chain.As a leader in the organization, the Procurement Director oversees the full spectrum of procurement activities — from category management and contract negotiation to supplier risk management and sustainability initiatives. The role requires a balance of strategic vision, operational expertise, and strong leadership to align procurement goals with broader business objectives.Role OverviewThe Procurement Director is accountable for developing and leading procurement strategies that deliver measurable improvements in cost, quality, and operational performance. The role involves managing supplier relationships, driving continuous improvement, and leveraging data and technology to optimize decision-making. Acting as a strategic partner to internal teams, the director ensures that procurement supports the company’s growth, innovation, and sustainability objectives while maintaining resilience across the global supply chain.Key Responsibilities1. Strategic Procurement LeadershipDevelop and execute a comprehensive procurement strategy aligned with corporate objectives and supply chain goals.Lead category management initiatives to optimize supplier portfolios, enhance efficiency, and capture cost savings opportunities.Define procurement policies, governance frameworks, and KPIs to ensure transparency, compliance, and strategic alignment.Drive long-term sourcing strategies that balance cost efficiency with quality, risk mitigation, and innovation.2. Supplier Relationship ManagementBuild and maintain strong, strategic partnerships with key suppliers and stakeholders.Negotiate complex, high-value contracts and framework agreements that secure favorable terms and sustainable supply.Oversee supplier performance management processes to ensure adherence to quality, delivery, and service standards.Lead supplier development programs focused on innovation, reliability, and environmental responsibility.3. Cost Optimization and Value CreationIdentify and implement cost-saving initiatives across global and regional categories.Use data analytics and market intelligence to drive informed sourcing decisions and identify value creation opportunities.Balance short-term savings with long-term strategic procurement goals.Collaborate with finance and operations to align procurement budgets, forecasts, and financial planning.4. Risk Management and ComplianceDevelop and implement robust risk management frameworks to ensure business continuity.Monitor supplier and geopolitical risks, ensuring diversification and supply resilience.Enforce compliance with ethical standards, company policies, and international regulations.Integrate sustainability and ESG criteria into supplier evaluation and sourcing strategies.5. Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with internal departments — including operations, manufacturing, logistics, and R&D — to support business needs and new product initiatives.Collaborate with finance teams to track procurement performance, cost efficiency, and return on investment.Serve as a trusted advisor to senior management on supply market dynamics and strategic sourcing decisions.6. Technology and Process ImprovementLead the digital transformation of procurement through automation, analytics, and e-procurement tools.Implement and optimize systems such as SAP Ariba, Coupa, or Oracle SCM to streamline procurement operations.Promote data-driven decision-making by leveraging market insights and predictive analytics.Continuously improve processes to enhance agility, transparency, and efficiency.7. Leadership and Team DevelopmentLead and mentor a team of procurement professionals, promoting collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.Build a high-performance culture focused on innovation and results.Develop team capabilities through training, performance management, and career development initiatives.QualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. Professional certifications such as CIPS, CPSM, or CSCP are highly desirable.Experience and Skills:Proven leadership experience in procurement or supply chain management roles, preferably within a global organization.Deep knowledge of strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and contract negotiation.Strong understanding of global supply chain operations, logistics, and manufacturing processes.Proficiency in procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Ariba, Oracle, Coupa) and advanced data analytics tools.Experience with ESG, sustainable sourcing, and risk management frameworks.Core Competencies:Strategic and analytical mindset with strong problem-solving skills.Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.Results-driven and adaptable in a dynamic, fast-changing environment.Leadership presence and the ability to influence across multiple levels and regions.Core CompetenciesProcurement and Category StrategySupplier Relationship and Performance ManagementContract Negotiation and Risk MitigationCost Optimization and Value EngineeringSupply Chain Resilience and SustainabilityDigital Procurement TransformationCross-Functional Collaboration and Stakeholder EngagementLeadership and Team DevelopmentCareer DevelopmentThe Procurement Director – Supply Chain role offers significant growth opportunities into executive leadership positions such as:Vice President of Supply Chain or Procurement – overseeing global procurement strategy and operations.Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) – leading enterprise-wide procurement transformation and supplier strategy.Chief Operating Officer (COO) – managing integrated global supply chains and operational excellence.Continuous professional development in areas such as digital supply chain, sustainability, and data analytics can further strengthen leadership progression within this function.SummaryThe Procurement Director – Supply Chain is a strategic business leader responsible for ensuring procurement excellence, cost efficiency, and supply reliability across the organization. By leveraging market insights, digital innovation, and supplier partnerships, this role drives operational performance and long-term value creation. The ideal candidate combines strategic vision, financial acumen, and leadership capability to transform procurement into a key driver of competitive advantage and sustainable growth.