CHIEF PROCUREMENT OFFICER

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

The organisation is seeking a highly strategic and experienced Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) to lead, modernise and oversee end-to-end procurement operations. The successful candidate will ensure transparent, cost-effective, and compliant acquisition of goods and services, while driving value, governance, and efficiency in line with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

The CPO will further oversee the sourcing of critical medical supplies, laboratory reagents, equipment, and services, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and supporting operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive procurement strategy aligned with government policy and organisational priorities.

• Conduct market analysis, demand forecasting and category spend optimisation.

• Manage tendering processes, ensure transparency, drive fair competition, and strengthen procurement governance.

• Lead complex contract negotiations and manage supplier performance.

• Modernise procurement systems using innovative technologies and best practices.

• Support BBBEE objectives and ensure adherence to all PFMA and internal control requirements.

• Ensure full compliance with healthcare and laboratory regulations (FDA, OSHA, CMS, HIPAA where applicable).

• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to achieve quality, cost savings and operational excellence.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with clinical, laboratory, operations and finance teams.

• Support research, new product introductions and capital projects through effective sourcing and planning.

• Lead, mentor and develop the procurement and supply chain team, promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

• Provide expert advice and support on procurement matters across the organisation.

Public Relations, Marketing & Communications Responsibilities

• Develop and implement organisation-wide public relations and communication strategies.

• Manage brand development, public messaging and stakeholder communication.

• Lead media relations, publicity campaigns, and event planning.

• Oversee crisis communications and proactively manage reputational risks.

• Represent the organisation at industry events, conferences, and public forums.

• Build and lead the Strategy, Business Intelligence, Marketing & Communications teams.

Key Competencies & Attributes

• Strategic sourcing and supply chain leadership

• Contract negotiation & vendor management

• Risk management & compliance

• Procurement analytics and policy development

• Strong stakeholder management

• Ethical decision-making and high attention to detail

• Results-oriented, cost-focused, and adaptable

• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills

• Change leadership