Head of Procurement

Position Overview

The Head of Procurement is responsible for leading, managing, and optimizing all procurement and sourcing activities at LUMS. This role ensures the timely availability of quality goods and services at the most competitive prices while maintaining full compliance with institutional policies, donor requirements, and national regulations. The incumbent will play a strategic role in vendor management, cost optimization, contract administration, policy development, and continuous process improvement to support LUMS’ academic, administrative, and operational needs efficiently and transparently.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement, and periodically update the institutional procurement strategy, policies, and SOPs aligned with LUMS’ goals and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee the end-to-end procurement process including demand planning, sourcing, bidding, negotiations, evaluations, and contract finalization.
• Ensure procurement activities are carried out in accordance with internal controls, compliance standards and audit requirements.
• Manage and mentor the procurement team, ensuring efficiency, accountability, and adherence to ethical practices.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with local and international suppliers, ensuring consistent quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead vendor evaluation, performance monitoring, and periodic supplier audits.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand procurement needs, timelines, and specifications.
• Analyse market trends, price fluctuations, and supply risks to develop cost-saving and risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversee import/export transactions, LCs, and logistics for overseas procurements.
• Support strategic capital projects by managing tenders, contracts, and vendor/subcontractor coordination.
• Prepare and present procurement reports, dashboards, and cost analyses to senior management.
• Manage Store operations ensuring optimum stock and ready availability of critical items.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of procurement laws, tender management, and public/private procurement frameworks.
• Familiarity with ERP SAP systems, procurement automation tools, and international trade documentation.
• Sound knowledge of contract management principles and vendor compliance mechanisms.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and people management capabilities.
• Advanced communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic planning and project management expertise.
• Financial acumen with strong understanding of budgeting and cost control.

Behaviours

• High ethical standards, transparency, and integrity in all dealings.
• Proactive, result-oriented, and adaptable to dynamic institutional needs.
• Collaborative and service-oriented approach to support academic and operational departments.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and innovation.

Qualifications

• At least a Bachelor’s (Hons) or Master’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, or a related field from a recognized university.
• Professional certifications such as CIPS, CSCP, or equivalent will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in procurement and supply chain management, including at least 2 to 3 years in a leadership role, preferably within higher education institutions, multinational corporations, or large-scale organizations.
• Proven track record of leading complex procurement operations, managing multimillion-rupee budgets, and developing high-performing teams.