Procurement Manager

About Uplift

Uplift is a dynamic global talent search agency operating across EMEA, LATAM, USA, and APAC. With successful placements in 52 countries, we combine speed, market intelligence, and cutting-edge recruitment technology to deliver executive and mid-to-senior talent across a wide range of functions.

Our approach integrates global networks, AI-powered sourcing, and advanced recruitment tools. Beyond recruitment, we actively engage with the talent and HR community through our podcast, newsletter, and webinars, staying at the forefront of global hiring and leadership trends.

About Our Client

Our client is a global aviation services organization with a strong international footprint and a rapidly growing presence in Africa. Operating within a highly regulated, fast-paced environment, the company supports complex operational activities across multiple locations and works closely with global and local leadership teams.

As part of their continued growth and operational excellence journey, the organization is strengthening its local procurement capabilities and is now seeking an experienced Procurement Manager to lead procurement operations in Kenya, in close collaboration with their Group Global Procurement and local stakeholders.

The Role: Procurement Manager – Kenya

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Department: Procurement

Reporting to: Managing Director

Dotted line: Global Director – Procurement & Construction

The Procurement Manager will be responsible for leading and executing end-to-end procurement activities for the Kenya operations. While Group Global Procurement manages group-wide strategic sourcing, this role holds full ownership of all local procurement categories, ensuring cost efficiency, compliance, and uninterrupted operational support.

This position requires a hands-on, commercially driven professional who can act as a strong bridge between local operational needs and global procurement standards.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement Strategy & Execution

• Lead and manage the full procurement lifecycle, from requisition through contracting, for all locally purchased goods and services
• Develop and execute local procurement strategies aligned with global objectives

Stakeholder & Global Collaboration

• Work closely with internal stakeholders including Operations, Technical, Finance, HR, IT, and Facilities to fully understand and support business needs
• Collaborate with the Group Global Procurement on compliance, category strategies, strategic sourcing alignment, reporting, and supplier performance

Sourcing, Supplier & Contract Management

• Lead sourcing, supplier selection, negotiations, contracting, and performance management across key categories, including:
• Operational Services & Rentals: rental cars and vehicles, outsourced manpower, general operational services
• Technical & Maintenance: machinery, tools, vehicle components and spare parts (tires, lubricants, batteries, wheelchairs, etc.), technical services
• Administrative Goods & Facility Services: cleaning, security, consumables, stationery and pantry, printing, renovations and refurbishments, periodic maintenance, transportation, insurance, uniforms, PPE, and administrative supplies

Cost Control & Reporting

• Drive cost optimization initiatives and continuous improvement opportunities
• Prepare procurement reports, spend analysis, and cost-saving initiatives for management

Compliance & Governance

• Ensure full compliance with company procurement policies and aviation industry standards
• Promote best practices, transparency, and ethical sourcing

Qualifications & Experience

Education & Background

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field
• Advanced level of English
• Experience working in multinational and cross-cultural environments
• 7+ years of procurement experience, preferably within aviation, logistics, industrial operations, or similar sectors

Skills & Competencies

• Strong negotiation and commercial acumen
• Solid analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proven ability to manage multiple procurement categories (technical, administrative, services)
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced operational environment
• Experience with procurement systems and ERP tools; SAP MM module knowledge is a strong advantage

What They Offer

• A key leadership role within a global aviation services organization
• High-impact exposure in a strategic and growing African market
• Opportunity to shape and strengthen local procurement operations
• Competitive compensation and long-term career development opportunities
• Close collaboration with global teams and strong professional growth potential