Strategic Purchase Manager

Brief Of the Role

Identify and source base oils, synthetic oils, esters, additives, and thickeners from global and local suppliers.

• Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, ensuring quality and cost optimization.
• Evaluate supplier technical capabilities, certifications, and compliance with industry standards. Collaborate with R&D teams to ensure product compatibility and innovation in formulations.
• Monitor market trends, prices, and availability of raw materials in the lubricants industry.
• Negotiate contracts, agreements, and pricing to optimize cost without compromising quality.
• Manage inventory levels and forecast procurement needs in line with production schedules.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory standards relevant to lubricants.

Other Skills

• Knowledge of lubricant testing standards such as ASTM and ISO.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement software.
• Strong understanding of supply chain and logistics in the lubricants sector.

Job Summary:

• We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Procurement Manager specializing in industrial lubricants, base oils, additives, and thickeners.
• The ideal candidate will have an in-depth understanding of base oil types (including synthetic, mineral, and esters), thickening agents, and specialized additive packages.
• This role involves vendor sourcing, negotiations, procurement, and ensuring the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and source base oils, synthetic oils, esters, additives, and thickeners from global and local suppliers.
• Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, ensuring quality and cost optimization.
• Evaluate supplier technical capabilities, certifications, and compliance with industry standards.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to ensure product compatibility and innovation in formulations.\
• Monitor market trends, prices, and availability of raw materials in the lubricants industry.
• Negotiate contracts, agreements, and pricing to optimize cost without compromising quality.
• Manage inventory levels and forecast procurement needs in line with production schedules.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory standards relevant to lubricants.

Key Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related technical field (MBA preferred).
• Minimum 9-12 years of experience in procurement or technical sourcing in the industrial lubricants sector.
• Strong technical knowledge of base oils, synthetic oils, esters, and additives.
• Experience working with thickeners like lithium, calcium sulfonate, and polyurea.
• Proven track record of supplier development and cost optimization.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with global and Indian regulatory standards for industrial lubricants.

Preferred Skills:

Knowledge of lubricant testing standards such as ASTM and ISO.

Proficiency in ERP systems and procurement software.

Strong understanding of supply chain and logistics in the lubricants sector.