About Departer – The German Headhunter:
Departer is a leading German Executive Search firm with over 20 years of experience in global leadership recruitment. We specialize in placing executives in medium-sized enterprises and private equity portfolio firms across DACH, MEAI, ASIA, and ANZ regions. With a deep understanding of the DACH economy, we facilitate successful placements within global management teams across corporate headquarters and entities abroad.
Our client is a global player with a strong foothold in the construction and infrastructure sectors, driving innovation and excellence in sustainable building practices. Regionally headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the company is expanding its operations across Southeast Asia, leveraging cutting-edge technologies in the field housing and large-scale infrastructure projects.
As the Chief Procurement Officer (m/f/d), you will be a key strategic leader respondsible for shaping and executing the company’s procurement vision across the region. Your role will be critical in managing complex supply chains, optimizing costs, and ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality materials for major construction projects. You will drive procurement innovation, foster key supplier partnerships, and ensure that procurement activities are aligned with the company’s long-term business goals. This is a senior leadership role, ideally suited for someone with extensive experience in large-scale project procurement and a track record of delivering exceptional results.
Your duties and responsibilities will include:
- Develop and lead a forward-thinking procurement strategy that aligns with the company’s ambitious growth plans across Southeast Asia
- Provide expert guidance on procurement best practices, driving efficiency and cost optimization across all sourcing activities
- Establish and manage strong, long-term relationships with strategic suppliers and partners, ensuring the availability of critical materials and services at optimal costs
- Oversee the implementation of advanced procurement tools and systems to streamline processes and enhance operational efficiency
- Lead high-level negotiations for major contracts, ensuring favorable terms and mitigating potential risks
- Collaborate closely with regional project teams to ensure timely and effective procurement support for all ongoing and future projects
- Identify and implement sustainable procurement initiatives, incorporating environmental, social, and governance criteria into supplier selection and evaluation
- Monitor regional market trends, supply chain dynamics, and emerging risks to inform strategic decision-making
- Ensure full compliance with regional regulations, industry standards, and company policies in all procurement activities
To be successful in this role you should have the following skills and experiences:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field
- A minimum of 10 years of senior leadership experience in procurement, with a focus on large-scale construction or infrastructure projects
- Proven success in developing and executing high-impact procurement strategies in dynamic, fast-paced environments
- Strong expertise in contract negotiations, supplier relationship management, and cost-saving initiatives
- Experience managing procurement operations across multiple countries, ideally within Southeast Asia or comparable regions
- A strategic mindset with a deep understanding of market trends, supply chain risks, and innovative procurement practices
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with senior executives, suppliers, and cross-functional teams
- Proficiency in procurement software, data analysis, and process automation tools
- Willingness to be based in Kuala Lumpur, with regional travel as required