Job Purpose
To lead and manage the procurement of Special Purpose Machines (SPM), ensuring timely sourcing of high-quality components, assemblies, and systems at optimal cost, while developing strategic vendor partnerships and ensuring compliance with technical, quality, and commercial requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Procurement
- Develop and implement procurement strategies for SPM projects in alignment with engineering and project timelines.
- Lead make-or-buy decisions for SPM components and assemblies.
- Drive cost reduction initiatives, value engineering and long-term sourcing plans.
Vendor Management
- Identify, evaluate, develop, and onboard qualified vendors for mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical components.
- Negotiate commercial terms, pricing, contracts, and delivery schedules.
- Conduct vendor performance reviews on quality, cost, delivery, and service (QCDS).
Technical & Project Coordination
- Work closely with Design, Engineering, Production, and Project teams to understand technical specifications and BOI & BOMs.
- Ensure procurement aligns with project milestones and Factory Acceptance Test(FAT) /Site Acceptance Test (SAT) schedules.
- Handle long-lead and critical items for SPM builds.
Operational Procurement
- Oversee RFQs, techno-commercial evaluations, PO releases, and expediting.
- Ensure compliance with technical drawings, standards, and customer requirements.
- Resolve supply chain issues including delays, shortages, and quality deviations.
Quality & Compliance
- Ensure suppliers meet quality standards, certifications, and compliance norms.
- Support supplier audits and corrective action implementation.
- Ensure adherence to company procurement policies and statutory requirements.
Team Leadership
- Lead and mentor the purchase team, setting clear goals and KPIs.
- Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and systems (ERP).
Key Skills & Competencies
Technical Skills
- Strong knowledge of SPM manufacturing and associated components:
- Precision machined parts
- Fabrication & assemblies
- PLCs, sensors, motors, drives
- Raw materials
- Pneumatics & hydraulics
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings & BOMs.
- Experience with ERP
Commercial Skills
- Contract negotiation and cost analysis
- Vendor development and sourcing strategy
- Budgeting and cost control
Behavioural Skills
- Strong leadership and stakeholder management
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Problem-solving and decision-making ability
Qualifications
- B.E. / B.Tech – Mechanical
- MBA / PG Diploma in Supply Chain (preferred)
Experience
- 18-20 years of procurement experience in SPM / automation / machine manufacturing
- Proven experience in handling capital equipment procurement
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- On-time material availability for SPM projects
- Cost savings and value engineering results
- Vendor performance (QCD)
- Inventory optimization
- Compliance with project timelines
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