Objective
We are seeking a strategic and results-oriented Senior Procurement Specialist to lead procurement initiatives across our logistics and express operations in the UAE. In this critical role, you will manage the end-to-end sourcing and supplier management for categories essential to our business, including Last Mile Delivery, Fleet Management, International Freight, Warehousing, and Customs Clearance. You will act as a trusted advisor to internal stakeholders, driving cost efficiency, operational excellence, and compliance with company policies in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
Logistics & Operational Procurement:
- Lead the sourcing and procurement for core logistics categories, including Last Mile delivery partners, courier services, Fleet (vehicles, maintenance, fuel), and Heavy Trucks.
- Manage procurement for International Logistics and Freight Forwarding services, including Air and Sea Freight.
- Oversee the procurement of Warehousing services, including 3PL negotiations, Material Handling Equipment (MHE), and storage solutions.
- Manage contracts and performance for Customs Clearance brokers and related service providers.
Category Management & Strategy:
- Develop and implement category strategies for logistics and operational spend to optimize total cost of ownership (TCO) while maintaining service levels.
- Conduct market analysis to identify new suppliers, industry trends, and innovations in the express logistics sector.
- Lead complex tenders (RFPs/RFQs), evaluate bids, and make strategic sourcing recommendations.
Supplier & Contract Management:
- Lead negotiations for high-value contracts, ensuring favorable terms, pricing structures, and service level agreements (SLAs) with logistics partners.
- Develop and manage contract management plans, ensuring supplier compliance with SLAs, KPIs, and company policies.
- Proactively manage supplier relationships to mitigate risks (e.g., capacity, geopolitical) and drive continuous improvement.
Stakeholder & Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Partner closely with Operations, Last Mile, Warehouse, and Finance teams to understand business needs and forecast demand.
- Act as the primary procurement point of contact for logistics stakeholders, ensuring alignment between procurement strategies and operational goals.
Facilities & Support Procurement:
- Support the procurement of Facilities Management services for warehouses and offices, including security, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) maintenance, and waste management.
- Manage tenders for Addition & Alteration (A&A) and Repair & Redecoration (R&R) projects.
Compliance & Governance:
- Ensure all procurement activities adhere to local laws, regulations, and iMile’s internal policies.
- Prepare professional and concise procurement documentation (Business Cases, Evaluation Reports, Contracts) for management approval.
Adverse Working Conditions (if applicable)
- Flexibility in working hours to meet business demands and urgent operational requirements.
- Occasional requirement to be on-site at warehouses, delivery hubs, or supplier locations for assessments.
Qualifications & Experience
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
Experience:
- Minimum 4-6 years of procurement experience, with a strong focus on the Logistics, Express, or Transportation industry.
- Proven track record of managing procurement for Last Mile operations, Fleet, Freight, and Customs.
- Experience in Facilities Management procurement (MEP, Security, Maintenance) is highly desirable.
Knowledge & Skills:
- Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of the logistics landscape in the UAE, including local regulations (customs, transport) and market rates.
- Negotiation: Strong commercial acumen with a demonstrated ability to negotiate complex contracts and achieve cost savings.
- Technical: Proficient in procurement software and the Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint). Knowledge of ERP systems is a plus.
- Soft Skills: Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving abilities. Must be able to work in a high-pressure, deadline-driven environment.
- Languages: Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Arabic is a strong advantage.
- Geography: Strong familiarity with the UAE geographical layout, particularly key industrial areas in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Northern Emirates.
