Role: Head of Procurement

Department: Procurement

Reports to: CEO

Location: Bangalore

Job Description

Role Objective:

- Develop and execute strategic sourcing plans aligned with retail operations and growth objectives.

- Oversee the entire procurement lifecycle - vendor selection, negotiation, contract management, and cost optimization - specific to retail needs.

- Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements relevant to retail sourcing.

Roles & Responsibilities:

- Develop and implement retail-specific sourcing strategies aligned with expansion, product categories, and seasonal needs.

- Identify opportunities to reduce costs on merchandise, packaging, store fixtures, and supply chain services.

- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and service providers across categories like FMCG, apparel, electronics, and store supplies.

- Regularly evaluate supplier performance, negotiate contracts, and ensure the procurement of high-quality products at competitive prices.

- Lead, mentor, and develop the procurement team to achieve high performance, agility, and innovation.

- Set KPIs to monitor procurement efficiency, quality, and compliance with retail standards.

- Manage procurement budgets, forecasts, and financial controls specific to retail inventory and operational spend.

- Track and analyze procurement spend across regions, categories, and seasons to drive cost savings and efficiencies.

- Ensure adherence to retail industry regulations, safety standards, and sustainable sourcing policies.

- Implement and utilize procurement systems and tools that support transparency, inventory management, and supplier collaboration.

- Collaborate closely with store operations, merchandising, finance, legal, and supply chain teams to support product launches and store openings.

- Provide regular reports on procurement performance, supplier risks, and strategic initiatives to senior management.

Qualifications & Education:

- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Retail Management, or related field.

Core Competencies:

- Strong negotiation, analytical, and strategic decision-making skills tailored for retail categories.

- Proficiency in retail procurement software, ERP, and supply chain management tools.

- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.

- Ability to develop innovative retail procurement systems and processes.

- Strategic thinking with focus on time-to-market, seasonal planning, and category management.

- Financial acumen related to inventory turnover, margins, and cost control in retail.

- Expertise in vendor relationship management, quality assurance, and social/legal compliance.

- Risk management skills, including handling supply disruptions, demand fluctuations, and currency risks.

- Leadership and team development experience specific to retail procurement.

Experience:

- 10-12 years of procurement experience with a focus on retail, FMCG, or consumer goods.

- At least 5 years in a leadership role overseeing retail procurement operations, preferably across multiple stores or channels.