Lead Buyer

Role Overview

We are looking for an experienced Lead Buyer to oversee procurement activities for assigned vessels while leading and mentoring a team of Buyers and Senior Buyers. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring the efficient sourcing and timely delivery of goods and services, maintaining strong supplier relationships, driving cost-effective purchasing strategies, and ensuring compliance with company procurement standards. This role also plays a key part in process improvement, team development, and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Operations

• Manage end-to-end procurement activities for assigned vessels.
• Source suppliers, obtain quotations, evaluate proposals, and negotiate competitive pricing.
• Prepare cost comparisons and recommend the most cost-effective purchasing solutions.
• Gather and maintain technical information from vessels, workshops, and suppliers.
• Monitor advance payments and maintain accurate procurement cost records.
• Coordinate with suppliers, freight forwarders, vessel agents, and vessel personnel to ensure the timely dispatch and delivery of goods and services.
• Manage the timely exchange of procurement documents between vessels and relevant stakeholders.
• Maintain complete and accurate procurement documentation in accordance with company policies and procedures.
• Provide operational support and guidance to Buyers and Senior Buyers as needed.

Team Leadership

• Lead, supervise, and mentor a team of Buyers and Senior Buyers.
• Plan and allocate workloads to ensure efficient team performance and service delivery.
• Coach team members on procurement systems, best practices, and Microsoft Office 365 applications.
• Support the implementation of new procurement processes, procedures, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and service quality.
• Perform other duties and special projects assigned by management.

Key Stakeholders

Internal

• Procurement Team
• Technical Superintendents
• Vessel Management Teams
• Shared Services Team
• Category Management Teams

External

• Vendors and Suppliers
• Freight Forwarders
• Service Providers

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of procurement experience, preferably in the ship management, maritime, or shipping industry.
• Previous experience leading or supervising a procurement team is an advantage.
• Knowledge of procurement systems, preferably PARIS.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Office 365.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong procurement, sourcing, and supplier relationship management skills.
• Excellent negotiation and cost management capabilities.
• Strong planning, organizational, and multitasking skills.
• Analytical thinker with sound problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Effective communicator with excellent stakeholder management skills.
• Proven leadership and coaching abilities.
• Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering high-quality service.
• Adaptable, proactive, and capable of driving continuous improvement initiatives in a fast-paced environment.