We are seeking a seasoned Procurement professional with over 10 years of experience to lead strategic sourcing, vendor development, contract management, and procurement operations specifically for defence and aerospace programs. The ideal candidate will ensure the timely availability of materials, optimize procurement costs, strengthen supplier relationships, and support indigenization initiatives. This role demands strict adherence to quality standards and regulatory compliance while driving efficiency across procurement activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with business objectives and project requirements.
- Manage end-to-end procurement processes, including sourcing, issuing RFQs, conducting techno-commercial evaluations, negotiating terms, and managing purchase orders.
- Identify, evaluate, and develop suppliers for mechanical, electrical, electronics, strategic components, and aerospace-grade materials.
- Lead cost optimization efforts, value engineering, and localization or indigenization initiatives to support business goals.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with both domestic and international suppliers to ensure supply chain reliability.
- Ensure timely procurement of materials to meet manufacturing, R&D, and project timelines.
- Lead contract negotiations, manage commercial discussions, and oversee supplier performance.
- Monitor inventory levels and collaborate closely with production, planning, engineering, and finance teams to maintain optimal stock.
- Manage procurement risks, address supply disruptions, and develop alternate sourcing strategies as needed.
- Ensure compliance with defence procurement standards, quality requirements, and company policies.
- Track supplier KPIs related to quality, delivery, cost, and responsiveness to drive continuous improvement.
- Support import procurement activities and coordinate with EXIM, logistics, and customs teams to facilitate smooth operations.
- Lead vendor audits, conduct supplier assessments, and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance supplier performance.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Mechanical, Electronics, or a related discipline.
- A minimum of 10 years of procurement experience, preferably within Defence, Aerospace, Manufacturing, Automotive, Electronics, Heavy Engineering, or High-Tech industries.
- Strong expertise in strategic sourcing, contract management, supplier development, and procurement planning.
- Proven experience managing both domestic and international procurement activities.
- Familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms.
- Excellent commercial acumen and negotiation skills to secure favorable terms and maintain supplier partnerships.
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA or postgraduate qualification in Supply Chain, Operations, or a related field is highly desirable.
This role offers the opportunity to lead procurement efforts in a highly specialized and critical sector, contributing to the success of defence and aerospace projects through strategic sourcing and supplier management excellence.