Procurement Operations Lead

Position: Procurement Operations Lead Location: Midrand, South Africa (office‑based) Reports to: Chief Financial Officer Level: Senior Procurement Leadership Industry Background: Pharmaceutical/Medical Role Purpose Lead the full design and implementation of a centralized Procurement function. Transform the current fragmented procurement environment into a unified, compliant, and high‑performing operating model aligned with global standards. Key Responsibilities Centralized Procurement Design & Transformation Build and embed a centralized procurement operating model. Standardize governance, processes, systems, and controls (including Ariba). Drive procurement‑related transformation and operational excellence initiatives. Value Creation & Performance Deliver cost savings through strategic sourcing and commercial optimization. Improve supplier quality, performance, and contract compliance. Strengthen audit readiness and S2P discipline. Stakeholder & Governance Management Represent Procurement to internal teams, vendors, auditors, and global stakeholders. Participate in budgeting and forecasting. Collaborate with GBS/Shared Services and join Global Procurement forums. People Leadership Build and lead a high‑performing procurement team. Develop procurement skills and future talent. Drive team engagement, coaching, and performance management. Qualifications Bachelors or postgraduate Degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field. Professional certifications (CIPS, CPSM, PMP, Lean Six Sigma) are beneficial. Experience 5+ years procurement or supply chain leadership experience (preferably multinational or multi‑country exposure). Advantage: Pharmaceutical/Medical or regulated‑industry experience. Experience centralizing or transforming procurement functions. Strong S2P, sourcing, compliance, and supplier management expertise. Proven leadership, stakeholder management, analytics, and change management capability. Competencies Strategic thinking, cross‑functional awareness, and business acumen. Strong leadership, communication, and decision‑making skills. Adaptability, innovation, continuous improvement mindset. Integrity, collaboration, diversity awareness, and effective conflict management.