Job Purpose:
The Procurement Associate is responsible for supporting the procurement function and ensuring the timely and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services required for the operations of Americana Restaurants International in UAE. This role focuses on maintaining supplier relationships, ensuring compliance with procurement policies, and optimizing supply chain efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
Procurement Operations:
- Assist in the sourcing and purchasing of goods and services in line with company requirements and standards.
- Prepare purchase orders and ensure accurate documentation for all procurement transactions.
- Coordinate with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of goods and resolve any issues related to orders.
Supplier Management:
- Maintain and update a database of approved suppliers and vendors.
- Support the evaluation of supplier performance based on quality, delivery time, and cost.
- Assist in negotiating contracts and pricing agreements with suppliers to ensure the best value for the company.
Compliance & Documentation:
- Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, procedures, and local regulations.
- Maintain accurate records of procurement transactions, including contracts, purchase orders, and invoices.
- Assist in preparing reports for internal audits and procurement reviews.
Cost Management:
- Identify cost-saving opportunities through market research, supplier negotiations, and process improvements.
- Monitor procurement expenses and provide regular updates to the Procurement Manager.
- Assist in preparing budget forecasts for procurement activities.
Market Research:
- Conduct market research to identify new suppliers, products, and trends in the industry.
- Stay updated on changes in market prices and availability of goods and services.
- Provide insights and recommendations to the Procurement Manager for strategic decision-making.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
- Work closely with other departments, such as operations, finance, and supply chain, to align procurement activities with business objectives.
- Coordinate with the finance team to ensure timely processing of payments to suppliers.
- Support project-specific procurement needs by working with relevant stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement:
- Identify areas for improvement in procurement processes and suggest enhancements to optimize efficiency.
- Assist in implementing new tools and systems to streamline procurement activities.
Key Requirements:
- Education: Bachelor's degree, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Experience: 2-4 years of experience in procurement or supply chain, preferably in the food & beverage or retail industry.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in procurement systems and ERP software.
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Familiarity with local procurement regulations and practices in UAE.
Competencies:
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
- Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
- Problem-solving mindset and ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
