Manager - Purchasing

Aga Khan University (AKU), a distinguished international institution established in 1983, operates across six countries with a commitment to academic excellence, social impact, and inclusivity. As part of the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU offers higher education and conducts research aligned with the needs of the communities it serves. The university fosters a diverse and respectful work environment, promoting equal opportunity and safeguarding all stakeholders, including vulnerable groups.

The Manager, Purchasing, reporting to the Director/Senior Manager of PSCMD, will lead procurement activities for medical, non-medical, and general goods and services. This role ensures procurement aligns with organizational policies, regulatory standards, and international best practices. The incumbent will focus on cost-effective purchasing, supplier management, and compliance, supporting healthcare operations with timely and efficient procurement. Strong analytical, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills are essential, alongside deep knowledge of healthcare supply chains.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement Strategy & Execution: Lead the review and approval of high-value and critical purchase requisitions. Oversee sourcing and vendor selection to ensure competitiveness and long-term value. Monitor purchase order lifecycles to maintain policy compliance and alignment with user requirements.

Supplier Relationship & Performance Management: Develop and maintain strategic supplier partnerships to guarantee continuity and foster innovation. Implement performance measurement frameworks and conduct regular supplier reviews. Address and resolve escalated supplier issues collaboratively with stakeholders.

Cost Optimization & Strategic Sourcing: Lead negotiations for significant and long-term contracts. Utilize market intelligence to optimize sourcing strategies and mitigate inflationary pressures. Drive initiatives aimed at reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

Governance and Documentation: Ensure accuracy and completeness of procurement documentation. Promote effective use of ERP systems for procurement processes, analytics, and contract management. Enforce internal controls, including segregation of duties.

Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration: Serve as the primary liaison between procurement and internal departments on critical projects. Coordinate with Aga Khan Development Network’s Group Purchasing and global sourcing teams. Manage escalations and align procurement priorities with institutional goals.

Policy Compliance & Risk Mitigation: Maintain compliance with PSCMD, AKU, donor, and legal requirements. Prepare necessary documentation for audits. Identify and mitigate supply chain risks such as vendor concentration and market volatility.

Innovation, Sustainability & Quality Improvement: Lead initiatives supporting sustainability goals, including Net Zero and Scope 3 targets. Promote adoption of AI, digital tools, and e-sourcing platforms. Identify opportunities for vendor consolidation and continuous procurement process enhancements.

Required Qualifications

A Master’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or a related field is required. Candidates should have 5 to 7 years of experience in procurement or supply chain management, preferably within a hospital or healthcare environment. Proven expertise in managing procurement of medical, pharmaceutical, non-medical, and general supplies and services is essential. Strong skills in strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and procurement leadership are necessary.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

Certification in Supply Chain Management, such as CIPS, CSCP, or CPSM, is considered an advantage. Experience leading digital transformation and sustainable procurement initiatives will be highly valued. Comprehensive employment reference checks will be conducted as part of the selection process.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a globally respected institution committed to quality, innovation, and social responsibility within a dynamic and inclusive work environment.