Job
Description
Purchase Head - MIT WPU Job Details: Job Title: Purchase Head Department: Purchase and Procurement Location: Kothrud, Pune Reporting Authority: Chief Operating Officer Job Purpose Lead, strategize, and manage the MIT WPU's end-to-end procurement operations for all academic, administrative, research, and support services (excluding infrastructure and civil works), ensuring cost-effective, compliant, and timely sourcing of goods and services. The role is responsible for vendor development, contract management, policy implementation, and maintaining transparency and efficiency in all purchase-related processes in alignment with institutional goals and regulatory standards. Key Accountability Strategic Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with the MIT WPUs academic and operational goals. Establish centralized purchasing policies, guidelines, and systems for effective and transparent procurement. Forecast procurement needs based on academic calendars, research projects, and departmental requirements. Drive digital procurement initiatives (e-procurement, ERP integration, automation tools). Ensure alignment with quality standards, regulatory compliance (e.g., UGC, NAAC, NBA), and audit readiness. Operational Oversee end-to-end procurement of lab equipment, IT hardware/software, books & journals, academic consumables, office supplies, and services. Manage vendor selection, negotiation, onboarding, and performance evaluation. Monitor and enforce SLAs, delivery timelines, and quality compliance. Ensure proper documentation, approvals, and adherence to internal control policies. Resolve procurement issues, disputes, or delays in coordination with internal stakeholders. Financial and Budget Develop annual procurement budgets in collaboration with finance and departments. Monitor and control spending within the approved procurement budget. Identify cost-saving opportunities through effective negotiation and strategic sourcing. Analyse procurement data to optimize vendor contracts, volume discounts, and payment terms. Submit regular financial reports and variance analyses related to procurement. Collaborations Collaborate with academic departments, research centers, administrative units, and IT for procurement planning. Work closely with the finance team for budgeting, payments, and audit support. Coordinate with inventory, stores, and facilities teams for inward/outward tracking and stock management. Participate in institutional committees (procurement, purchase, audit, etc.) as a subject matter expert. External Representation Represent the IT WPU in supplier/vendor meetings, exhibitions, and industry forums. Build and maintain strong vendor and OEM relationships to ensure preferential pricing and service. Benchmark best procurement practices by interacting with procurement heads from peer institutions. Liaise with regulatory bodies during audits or inspections for procurement-related documentation. Person Specification Substantial leadership and management experience Ability to get the work done by optimizing the resources for disposal External relations and Corporate engagement Dynamic with the ability to convince the external stakeholders Personal attributes and style A strong commitment to MIT WPU and its vision, ambitions, and values A personal commitment to and record in effective and respectful partnership working across all staff groups; Sound judgement and the ability and courage to make difficult but informed decisions, including on challenging issues; Exceptional personal and public communication and relations Minimum Qualification & Experience Postgraduate with 10 to 15 years of experience in the relevant field. Education domain preferred, but not restricted to, exceptional talent Communication & Working Relationship: Internal All Schools and Departments/functions University Leadership External Professional academic networks and societies
