Manager - Purchasing

Chartered in 1983, Aga Khan University (AKU) is a private, autonomous international university with 13 teaching sites across six countries on three continents. As part of the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU offers higher education in health sciences and social sciences, conducts research relevant to low- and middle-income countries, and operates multiple hospitals and outreach clinics that meet international standards. With nearly 2,500 students and 14,000 staff, AKU is recognized both for academic excellence and as a catalyst for social change. The university is committed to quality, relevance, impact, and access, fostering a diverse and inclusive culture that upholds respectful relationships among its workforce and stakeholders.

The Manager, Purchasing, reporting to the Director/Senior Manager of PSCMD, will lead procurement operations for medical, non-medical, and general goods and services. This role requires ensuring compliance with organizational policies, regulatory standards, and international best practices while supporting healthcare operations through timely and cost-effective purchasing. The position demands strong analytical, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills, along with deep expertise in healthcare supply chains.

Key Responsibilities

- Procurement Strategy & Execution: Lead the review and approval of high-value and critical purchase requisitions. Oversee sourcing and vendor selection to ensure competitiveness and long-term value. Monitor purchase order lifecycles for compliance and alignment with user requirements.

- Supplier Relationship & Performance Management: Develop strategic supplier partnerships to guarantee continuity and foster innovation. Implement performance evaluation frameworks and conduct periodic reviews. Resolve escalated supplier issues collaboratively with stakeholders.

- Cost Optimization & Strategic Sourcing: Lead negotiations for significant and long-term contracts. Utilize market intelligence to optimize sourcing strategies and mitigate inflationary pressures. Drive initiatives aimed at reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

- Governance and Documentation: Ensure accuracy and completeness of procurement documentation. Promote the use of ERP systems for procurement processes, analytics, and contract management. Enforce internal controls and segregation of duties.

- Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration: Serve as the liaison between procurement and internal departments for critical projects. Coordinate with AKDN’s Group Purchasing and global sourcing teams. Manage escalations and align procurement priorities with institutional goals.

- Policy Compliance & Risk Mitigation: Ensure adherence to PSCMD, AKU, donor, and legal guidelines. Prepare documentation for audits. Identify and mitigate supply chain risks, including vendor concentration and market volatility.

- Innovation, Sustainability & Quality Improvement: Lead sustainability initiatives aligned with Net Zero and Scope 3 targets. Promote adoption of AI, digital tools, and e-sourcing platforms. Identify opportunities for vendor consolidation and continuous procurement process enhancements.

Required Qualifications

- Master’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 to 7 years of experience in Procurement or Supply Chain Management, preferably within a hospital or healthcare environment.
- Proven expertise in managing procurement of medical, non-medical, pharmaceutical, and general supplies and services.
- Strong skills in strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and procurement operations.
- Demonstrated leadership in digital transformation, sustainable procurement, and stakeholder management.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Professional certification in Supply Chain management such as CIPS, CSCP, or CPSM is an advantage.
- Experience in leading procurement initiatives that support sustainability goals and digital innovation.
- Comprehensive employment reference checks will be conducted as part of the recruitment process.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to an internationally recognized institution committed to excellence, innovation, and social impact in healthcare procurement.