Senior Manager Purchase

The Senior Manager Purchase is responsible for leading the end-to-end purchae management function, ensuring timely procurement, storage, distribution, and inventory control of all academic, laboratory, administrative, and facility-related materials for the university. This role ensures operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, vendor performance, and cost optimization while supporting academic and research priorities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Procurement & Sourcing

• Lead procurement of academic materials, lab supplies, equipment, textbooks, IT assets, furniture, and facility consumables.
• Develop and implement sourcing strategies aligned with the universitys academic and operational needs.
• Evaluate, negotiate, and manage vendor contracts and service-level agreements.
• Ensure compliance with university policies and statutory procurement guidelines.

2. Inventory & Warehouse Management

• Oversee centralized and decentralized stores/warehouses across campus.
• Implement robust inventory control systems to prevent shortages or excess stock.
• Ensure proper storage practices for sensitive items (lab chemicals, equipment, electronics, etc.).
• Conduct regular physical audits, stock reconciliations, and forecasting.

3. Distribution & Logistics

• Ensure efficient distribution of materials to academic departments, research labs, classrooms, and hostels.
• Coordinate inbound and outbound logistics, including delivery scheduling and tracking.
• Optimize material movement through digitized workflows.

4. Vendor & Contract Management

• Maintain strong relationships with suppliers, manufacturers, and service providers.
• Monitor vendor performance using KPIs (quality, cost, delivery timelines).
• Resolve supply issues and escalate risks proactively.

5. Budgeting & Cost Control

• Prepare annual material budgets and manage expenditures effectively.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities through bulk purchasing, long-term contracts, and inventory optimization.
• Track and report material usage, wastage, and cost variances.

6. Technology, Compliance & Reporting

• Implement ERP or e-procurement systems for tracking purchases, inventory, and approvals.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards (especially for labs).
• Provide periodic MIS reports to management on procurement efficiency, stock levels, and risks.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in , Materials Management
• 8–12+ years of experience in materials or supply chain management, preferably in education, research, or large institutional settings.
• Proven experience with procurement systems and ERP tools.
• Strong knowledge of inventory, warehouse, and vendor management best practices.
• Experience managing lab materials, chemicals, and specialized equipment is a plus.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong negotiation and analytical skills
• Leadership and team management
• Vendor and stakeholder management
• Budgeting and cost optimization
• Knowledge of safety and compliance norms
• Excellent communication and documentation skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced academic environment