SENIOR PURCHASING ASSOCIATE (CORPORATE)

Subsidiary: Genser Energy Ghana Limited (GEGL)

Division / Department: Finance (FIN) / Supply Chain (SC)                                                                                                                                          

Location: Corporate Office, Takoradi, Western Region, Ghana

Designation Level: Functional Head

Reports Directly to: Supply Chain Manager

OBJECTIVE: The Senior Purchasing Associate (Corporate) will lead the procurement of goods, services, and works in support of Genser Energy’s corporate and project operations. This role requires deep expertise in end-to-end procurement, including strategic sourcing, supplier negotiation, bidding and tendering processes, and international vendor management. The position covers procurement activities for Power Plant Projects, Pipeline Projects, Midstream Projects, and a wide range of indirect categories—including Health & Safety, ESG, HR, and facilities. The ideal candidate brings strong cultural awareness, international exposure, and a proven ability to align procurement strategies with organizational goals, budgets, and compliance standards.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

PROCUREMENT

Procurement & Purchasing Management

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify procurement plans that support projects and corporate objectives across all business units.
• Conduct market research to identify cost-effective suppliers, track market trends, and assess supplier capabilities.
• Lead the development and execution of purchasing strategies, including competitive tendering, bid evaluation, and supplier selection.
• Oversee and manage end-to-end procurement activities, ensuring alignment with project timelines, quality requirements, and budget constraints.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, service levels, and contract conditions with vendors and service providers.
• Prepare detailed cost analyses, procurement reports, and budget tracking documents to inform strategic decisions.

Vendor Relationship Management

• Establish and maintain productive relationships with key suppliers and service providers.
• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and audits focusing on quality, delivery reliability, cost competitiveness, and compliance.
• Partner with vendors to resolve delivery delays, product quality issues, and pricing discrepancies, ensuring continuous improvement.
• Develop long-term supplier partnerships to support strategic sourcing goals and business continuity.

Documentation & Record-Keeping

• Ensure all supplier information is accurately and promptly entered into the company ERP (Sage X3).
• Streamline and enhance supplier enrollment and qualification processes to maintain up-to-date vendor databases.
• Maintain comprehensive records of contracts, purchase orders, bids, and agreements for internal tracking and audit readiness.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Prepare, review, and maintain complete and accurate procurement documentation, ensuring legal and policy compliance.
• Work closely with legal, finance, and compliance teams to ensure adherence to internal controls, regulatory standards, and ethical procurement practices.
• Mitigate procurement risks by ensuring transparency and traceability across the procurement process.

BUDGETING

• Actively assist the Department Head with the preparation of the monthly budget.
• Develop and manage all budget items, including cost control and expenditure forecasting.
• Ensure the budget is in line with the department’s scheduled activities.

ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Supervise the team to execute assigned projects within deadlines and budget. 
• Carry out performance appraisals and development plans with subordinate staff. 
• Coordinate the leave schedule of subordinate staff. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or Procurement is mandatory.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Experience in multicultural environments and international procurement (Asia, Europe, U.S.) is mandatory.
• Fluency in French or Chinese is a plus.

KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of 8+ years of experience in a similar role, preferably within the energy, infrastructure, or industrial projects sector.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Proficiency with industry-specific software (SAP, Sage, Oracle).
• Proven experience managing tenders, bids, and international supplier negotiations.
• In-depth knowledge of procurement processes, vendor management, contract law, and cost control methodologies.
• Strong analytical and planning skills, with proficiency in preparing cost-benefit analyses and procurement forecasts.
• Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across functions and geographies.

COMPETENCIES:

• Strategic Vision: Drive projects towards improving efficiencies based on processes and procedures.
• Efficient Project Management: Contribute to projects aimed at improving efficiencies through effective processes and procedures.
• Strong Leadership: Capable of addressing technical, financial, and HR challenges in a dynamic work environment.
• Adaptability: Willingness to adjust work practices to achieve the best results.
• Effective Communication: Communicate clearly and consistently; be a good listener and negotiator.
• Diligent Work Ethic: Manage multiple projects and ensure timely delivery of results.
• Commitment to Development: Take responsibility for personal growth and the training of team members.
• Efficiency Improvement: Navigate challenges and enhance efficiency through the use of technology.
• Organizational Skills: Strong planning, organizational, and time management abilities, with a knack for coordinating activities across different areas.