Procurement Manager - Transport

Job Description

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Job Description: Procurement Manager – Transportation Category Job Title: Transport Procurement Manager – Procurement Reports to: Transport Category Head Location: Mumbai Position Overview We are seeking an experienced and strategic Procurement Manager – Transportation Category to join our Procurement function. The role involves implementing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and optimizing transportation-related costs and services. The ideal candidate should have strong expertise in transportation logistics, excellent negotiation skills, and proven experience in managing complex procurement projects within a global or large-scale environment. Key Responsibilities 1. Category Strategy Development Implement procurement strategies for the Transportation category aligned with business goals. Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and identify opportunities for cost savings, service improvements, and risk mitigation. 2. Supplier Relationship Management Build and maintain strong relationships with transportation service providers, carriers, and 3PL partners. Negotiate contracts, manage vendor performance, and conduct regular reviews to ensure service excellence, compliance, and cost competitiveness. 3. Sourcing and Vendor Selection Lead end-to-end sourcing activities including RFIs, RFPs, and negotiations. Evaluate supplier proposals and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the best value in cost and service. 4. Contract Management Develop, manage, and monitor contracts with suppliers. Ensure favorable terms, compliance with regulations, and timely renewal or modification of agreements. 5. Cost Optimization Drive initiatives for cost reduction and operational efficiency. Analyze freight rates, shipping methods, and carrier networks to optimize costs while maintaining service quality. Implement strategies like consolidation, mode optimization, and network improvements. 6. Risk Management Identify and mitigate risks related to transportation such as capacity issues, regulatory compliance, and service disruptions. Develop contingency plans and alternative sourcing strategies to safeguard operations. 7. Performance Monitoring & Reporting Define KPIs to monitor transportation service levels, supplier performance, and cost savings. Prepare regular reports and dashboards for management review and decision-making. 8. Continuous Improvement Stay updated with industry best practices, technologies, and market trends. Drive process improvement initiatives and implement innovative solutions to enhance overall supply chain efficiency. Qualifications & Skills Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or related field. Advanced degree/certifications (e.g., CSCP, CPSM) preferred. 10–12 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, and supplier management, specifically in the transportation category. Strong knowledge of transportation logistics including road, air, ocean, and rail modes, customs regulations, and freight forwarding. Proven success in negotiations, cost optimization, and vendor management. Hands-on experience with TMS (Transportation Management Systems), freight payment systems, and related tools. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with data-driven decision-making. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills. Leadership qualities with the ability to influence and drive results across cross-functional teams.