OverviewThe Director of Procurement is a strategic leader responsible for driving purchasing strategies that ensure product availability, optimize cost, and strengthen supplier performance across First Supply. This role partners closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to align procurement initiatives with business growth, leveraging AI, analytics, and standardized processes to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will lead and develop a high-performing team while delivering continuous improvement, supply continuity, and value creation across the organization.
Responsibilities- Develop, execute, and evolve procurement strategies that align with First Supply's business objectives, growth plans, and supplier commitments, while effectively managing spend and ensuring adhere to budget targets
- Lead, coach, and develop the procurement team to drive accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
- Lead the use of AI, automation, and advanced analytics to improve demand forecasting, purchasing accuracy, supplier insights, and decision-making
- Establish and enforce standardized procurement processes, tools, and governance to improve consistency, scalability, and decision quality
- Partner with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to align procurement priorities with sales, operations, and inventory strategies
- Provide strategic support and analysis for vendor negotiations, including cost modeling, market insights, risk assessment, and scenario planning
- Oversee supplier performance management, ensuring accountability to contractual obligations and company standards
- Drive cost optimization initiatives through improved processes, data transparency, and informed sourcing decisions
- Analyze market trends and conditions to anticipate supply chain issues and mitigate risks
- Utilize data analytics and performance metrics to drive procurement decisions and measure success
- Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, industry standards, and company policies
- Develop and implement risk management strategies to address potential disruptions in the supply chain
- Maintain accurate records of procurement activities, contracts, and supplier performance
- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance procurement efficiency and effectiveness
- Stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and new technologies to drive innovation within the procurement function
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement within the procurement team
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in procurement, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
- Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Strategic thinker with a proven track record of developing and executing successful procurement strategies
- In-depth knowledge of supply chain management, procurement processes, and supplier relationship management
- Proficient in procurement systems and Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced Excel expertise
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
