Chief Procurement Officer

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 continuous availability and cost-effectiveness. Key Responsibilities: * Develop and implement comprehensive procurement strategies aligned with the organisation's goals and objectives. * Lead, manage, and mentor the procurement team, fostering a culture of high performance, accountability, and continuous improvement. * Oversee the entire procurement lifecycle, from sourcing and vendor selection to contract negotiation and management. * Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies, including the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). * Manage and mitigate procurement-related risks, including supply chain disruptions, vendor performance issues, and ethical concerns. * Drive cost savings and efficiency improvements through strategic sourcing, negotiation, and process optimisation. * Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders. * Monitor and analyse procurement performance metrics, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions. * Oversee the procurement of critical medical supplies, laboratory reagents, equipment, and services. * Stay abreast of industry best practices, emerging trends, and technological advancements in procurement. Qualifications and Experience: * Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field; a Master's degree is preferred. * Extensive experience (typically 10+ years) in procurement, with a proven track record of success in a leadership role. * In-depth knowledge of procurement principles, practices, and regulations, including the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). * Strong leadership, management, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a high-performing team. * Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills. * Demonstrated ability to develop and implement effective procurement strategies. * Experience in the healthcare or pharmaceutical industry is a plus. * Experience in sourcing medical supplies and equipment. * Strong analytical and financial acumen. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Benefits: * Competitive salary and benefits package. * Opportunity to make a significant impact on the organisation. * Dynamic and challenging work environment. * Professional development opportunities.