Director of Procurement

About Us:

A dynamic and exciting startup initiative in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: a higher education institution specialized in arts and creativity, the first of its kind in the region. This initiative aims to significantly expand opportunities across all artistic and creative sectors. The institution will offer a comprehensive range of creative academic programs, from vocational courses to doctoral degrees, through various modes of learning.

With an innovative outlook and entrepreneurial spirit, the institution will play a central role in nurturing the next generation of creative leaders and practitioners who will join a dynamic and growing hub for arts and creativity. It will also focus on fostering values, social responsibility, and cultural enrichment, playing an important role in celebrating the Kingdom’s rich heritage and contributing to shaping its future.

We are currently seeking an outstanding, enthusiastic, and committed individual to join us and contribute to the transformation of arts and creative education across the Kingdom. We invite you to be part of this exciting journey toward an exceptional beginning.

Job Roles and Key Responsibilities:

General Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies to optimize cost savings and operational efficiency
• Represent the University to external stakeholders (vendors and partners) in a positive and professional manner

Strategic Responsibilities

• Develop and communicate a procurement business plan
• Establish and implement long-term goals for the department in order to promote effectiveness and efficiency
• Establish essential procurement guidelines for safeguarding University’s quality focus whilst maintaining purchase budgets
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (University leadership, Deans, Directors of Colleges and other Heads of Departments etc.) to understand their procurement needs and requirements

Operational Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate potential vendors and suppliers based on quality, price, and reliability
• Oversee the procurement process, including requisition, sourcing, purchasing,
• and delivery
• Monitor, review and analyze bids and quotes with suppliers
• Monitor supplier performance and resolve any issues or disputes that may arise
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with vendors to secure favorable terms and Conditions

Industry Experience

• 10+ years of experience in procurement, with preferably 5+ years in a reputed institute of higher education
• Strong know-how of the procurement laws and regulatory procedures in Saudi Arabia
• Strong domain knowledge across varied procurement & supply chain functions
• Master’s degree is highly preferred
• Affinity for the local, regional and international cultural industry

Management capabilities

• Proven strategic mindset combined with a track record of execution & delivery excellence
• Demonstrated commitment to mentoring, coaching, and developing a team
• Proven organizational capabilities along with a data-driven, digital-first mindset
• Strong analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

• Strong interpersonal, persuasion and networking skills
• Strong sourcing and negotiation skills

Reporting Lines

• Reports to and is appointed by: Chief Financial Officer of the University