Purchase Manager

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Purchase Manager in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to steer procurement activities, strengthen supplier partnerships, and improve purchasing performance across the business. The role focuses on cost control, supply reliability, vendor governance, import handling, and cross-functional coordination to support uninterrupted operations and production needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Take an active role in establishing and rolling out processes that meet Group EHS expectations.
• Drive initiatives to improve purchasing systems and workflows so budgets are protected and profitability improves.
• Handle commercial and pricing negotiations across all procurement activities.
• Create and qualify alternate materials and sourcing options to lower the Materials Price Index.
• Draft, review, and validate vendor agreements while ensuring commercial and legal requirements are met.
• Develop durable relationships with local and international suppliers, and hold them accountable for service, pricing, delivery, and quality.
• Review supplier performance on a regular basis to confirm quality standards and specification compliance.
• Identify and onboard alternate or new suppliers to support import substitution and cost-saving goals.
• Manage imports of raw materials and finished products, including customs clearance, bonded movements, and EXIM policy adherence.
• Coordinate with government departments and regulators for approvals and permits linked to chemical and hazardous material procurement and storage.
• Work with the Planning Cell and plant teams to keep inventory at the right level without interrupting production.
• Implement computerized and automated MRP tools to make procurement more efficient.
• Set up and run a supplier complaints workflow, ensure issues are closed quickly, and oversee reverse logistics for damaged or defective materials.
• Manage the applicable ERP modules and ensure procurement data remains accurate and consistent.
• Source essential raw materials for new product development and innovation initiatives.
• Provide direction and support to local purchase officers deployed across factory locations to ensure strong purchasing outcomes.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• BSc or MSc in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering, along with a Diploma in Materials Management.
• At least 15 years of experience in purchasing and supply chain management.
• A minimum of 3 years in a head-of-department role within procurement for a division or company.
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, and negotiation abilities, with evidence of using a structured process-based approach.
• Hands-on experience across the full import and export cycle, including documentation, insurance, and customs clearance.
• Comfortable using computers and MS tools, including Microsoft Excel and DAX/ER.
• Capable team leader with a cooperative, positive working style.
• Exposure to logistics tracking platforms and supplier performance management is an advantage.
• Valid UAE driving licence preferred.

Additional Information

The role involves procurement leadership across raw materials, finished goods, vendor management, compliance coordination, and inventory support. It also includes working with local and global supply partners, managing complaint resolution, and supporting operational continuity across factory sites.