Head of Procurement

Job Title: Head – ProcurementJob Location: SRM University–AP, Andhra PradeshRole OverviewThe Head – Procurement will lead the end-to-end procurement function for SRM University–AP, ensuring transparent, efficient, and strategic acquisition of goods, services, and works across the 100-acre campus. This role is suited for a senior professional with experience managing large-scale procurement operations (₹100 crore+ annually) in universities, educational institutions, or comparable large organizations.The position involves developing robust procurement strategies, strengthening vendor relationships, driving cost optimization, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory and institutional standards. The role requires strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of procurement frameworks, and the ability to collaborate effectively with academic, administrative, and technical departments.Key Duties and Responsibilities1) Strategic PlanningDevelop, implement, and continuously refine comprehensive procurement strategies.Align procurement goals with the University’s overall mission, growth plans, and budget priorities.Conduct thorough market research to identify trends, vendor capabilities, and emerging opportunities.2) Team LeadershipLead, mentor, and guide the procurement team toward achieving high performance.Set clear KPIs, monitor performance, and implement learning and development plans.Foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement.3) Supplier & Contract ManagementBuild and sustain strong partnerships with key suppliers, contractors, and service providers.Oversee the negotiation of high-value contracts, rate agreements, and long-term supply arrangements.Implement supplier performance evaluation processes and ensure consistent service delivery.Address disputes, escalations, and vendor non-compliance proactively.4) Financial & Cost ManagementDevelop, monitor, and manage the procurement budget.Drive cost-optimization initiatives while maintaining quality and service standards.Track, review, and report expenditures, savings, and procurement cycle metrics.Ensure adherence to financial policies, audit norms, and budgetary controls.5) Process Improvement & ComplianceStreamline procurement workflows to improve operational efficiency, cycle time, and accuracy.Implement procurement best practices, e-tendering processes, and digital tools.Ensure full compliance with statutory, regulatory, and institutional procurement guidelines.Strengthen documentation, audit readiness, and policy adherence.6) Risk ManagementIdentify procurement-related risks and implement mitigation strategies.Develop and maintain a comprehensive procurement risk management framework.Ensure supplier reliability and business continuity through strategic sourcing and risk mapping.7) Stakeholder CollaborationWork closely with academic, administrative, technical, and infrastructure teams to understand requirements.Facilitate cross-department coordination on specifications, timelines, and procurement plans.Train internal stakeholders on procurement procedures, compliance guidelines, and best practices.8) Reporting, Analytics & GovernancePrepare periodic reports on procurement performance, contract status, and cost-saving achievements.Use data analytics to drive decision-making, vendor evaluation, and forecasting.Present recommendations, procurement dashboards, and risk insights to senior management.Qualifications, Experience & SkillsEducation:B.Tech / M.Tech / MBA in Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a related field.Master’s degree preferred.Professional certifications (e.g., CPSM, CIPS, CPIM, CPP) are an added advantage.Experience:Minimum 15 years of experience in procurement, supply chain, or contract management.At least 8 years in a leadership role in a large organization.Experience handling ₹100 crore+ annual procurement volume.Prior experience in universities or large education institutions is highly preferred.Technical SkillsExpertise in strategic sourcing, tendering processes, contract management, and vendor development.Strong knowledge of procurement laws, compliance rules, and audit requirements.Proficiency in ERP systems, e-procurement platforms, and procurement automation tools.Strong analytical, quantitative, and data-driven decision-making abilities.Personal & Leadership SkillsExcellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.Strong leadership, team-building, and conflict-resolution abilities.High ethical standards, integrity, and adherence to governance norms.Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.