Regional Procurement Manager

Work with UsLaunched in 2004, Cognita is an extraordinary community of schools that span 20 countries and share one common purpose: to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. With over 100 schools in Europe and the US, the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia, Cognita employs more than 22,000 teaching and support staff in the care and education of over 100,000 students.Together, Cognita schools provide a uniquely global education that goes beyond grades, developing academic excellence alongside adaptability, agency, and the positive attitudes that prepare young people to grow, thrive, and find success in a rapidly evolving world.Job OverviewWe are seeking an experienced and strategic Regional Procurement Manager to lead and manage procurement operations across our schools and business units in the region. This pivotal role ensures efficient, compliant, and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services, translating strategic procurement goals into operational excellence.The ideal candidate will be a strong leader with proven experience in procurement transformation, vendor management, and stakeholder engagement, driving value, efficiency, and compliance across a multi-site organisation.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic & Operational ProcurementLead and manage procurement activities across the region, ensuring timely, efficient, and cost-effective delivery of goods and services.Develop and execute sourcing strategies aligned with Cognita’s Procure to Pay (P2P) transformation and overall business objectives.Oversee the full procurement cycle - requisition, sourcing, negotiation, contracting, and purchase order management.Build strong partnerships with vendors and internal teams to drive continuous improvement and best practices.Maintain a robust supplier database ensuring competitive pricing, quality standards, and reliable supply.Compliance & DocumentationEnsure all procurement activities comply with Cognita policies, UAE regulations, and ethical standards.Oversee compliance documentation for procurement transactions and vendor onboarding.Maintain accurate records, contracts, and vendor databases, supporting internal and external audits.Service Level Agreements (SLAs) & Performance ManagementMonitor, report, and manage SLAs for procurement processes, including turnaround times, compliance checks, and delivery schedules.Use ERP systems (e.g. NetSuite) to track procurement activities and prepare compliance reports.Manage vendor performance against SLAs, addressing service issues and driving continuous improvement.Stakeholder EngagementCollaborate closely with school and regional stakeholders to understand procurement needs and ensure timely, policy-compliant sourcing.Serve as a trusted advisor on procurement processes, compliance, and supplier performance.Risk ManagementIdentify and mitigate operational, financial, and reputational risks in procurement activities.Implement contingency plans to ensure uninterrupted service delivery.Team Leadership & DevelopmentLead, coach, and develop regional procurement supervisors to build a high-performing, motivated team.Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and professional growth.Share best practices and support standardisation across the Cognita network.Person SpecificationSignificant experience in procurement or supply chain management, ideally in an education or multi-site environment.Proven track record in cost savings, process improvement, and supplier performance management.Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.Expertise in compliance, contract management, and risk mitigation.Advanced proficiency with ERP systems (especially NetSuite) and digital procurement tools.CIPS qualification (or equivalent) preferred.At Cognita, you’ll join a global network of schools and professionals dedicated to delivering excellence in education and operations. We offer a collaborative environment, professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a real impact across our regional operations.C ognita is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers, and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed .