PROCUREMENT INTERNS AT SERENA HOTELS

JOB DESCRIPTION: PROCUREMENT INTERNS AT SERENA HOTELS

Company Overview

Welcome to Serena Hotels, a prestigious collection of 22 up-market hotels, safari lodges, camps, and resorts spanning across 7 countries in Eastern Africa. With our presence in enchanting locations, we uphold the highest standards of service and hospitality. At Serena, we recognize the paramount importance of our human resources and dedicate significant resources towards staff development annually.

Position: Procurement Interns

Location:

Nairobi, Kenya (with travel to various units within Kenya)

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Supplies Management or CPSP-K Part 3.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Holders of Supplies Practitioners License are preferred.
• Experience in supply chain management is advantageous.

Competencies & Core Values:

• High level of honesty, accuracy, and integrity.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work under pressure, including weekends and public holidays.
• Responsible team player with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Job Summary:

As a Procurement Intern at Serena Hotels, you will embark on a journey to gain invaluable experience in procurement and supply chain management within the hospitality industry. Under the mentorship of seasoned professionals, you will contribute to the procurement process, ensuring the timely and efficient acquisition of goods and services essential for our operations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assist in sourcing suppliers and obtaining quotations for goods and services.
2. Collaborate with various departments to determine procurement needs and specifications.
3. Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation.
4. Assist in evaluating supplier performance and maintaining vendor relationships.
5. Support in inventory management and stock control activities.
6. Participate in negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable terms and pricing.
7. Monitor market trends and research potential suppliers to optimize procurement strategies.

Benefits:

• Hands-on experience in procurement within the hospitality industry.
• Mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Exposure to diverse procurement practices and challenges.
• Opportunity for growth and development within Serena Hotels.

Application Process:

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply with their applications and certified copies of certificates on or before 28th March 2024. Please use the subject heading “Application for a position as a procurement intern” and send your applications to jobvacancy.kenya@serenahotels.com.

• GRP 3: CLICK HERE TO JOIN
• GRP 2: CLICK HERE TO JOIN

TELEGRAM CHANNEL

• CLICK HERE TO JOIN

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Procurement Interns:

1. Tailor Your Application: Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences and skills related to procurement and supply chain management.
2. Showcase Your Skills: Highlight any software proficiency, such as Microsoft Excel, and provide examples of your ability to work under pressure and as part of a team.
3. Research Serena Hotels: Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the company by researching its values, culture, and recent achievements.
4. Network: Reach out to current or former employees of Serena Hotels to gain insights into the company culture and expectations for interns.
5. Prepare for Interviews: Anticipate common interview questions related to procurement and practice your responses to showcase your qualifications and fit for the role.
6. Ask Questions: During interviews, ask thoughtful questions about the procurement processes at Serena Hotels and how interns contribute to the overall operations.
7. Demonstrate Integrity: Emphasize your commitment to honesty and integrity, essential qualities for a procurement professional.
8. Highlight Your Motivation: Express your eagerness to learn and grow as a procurement intern at Serena Hotels.
9. Follow Up: Send a thank-you email after interviews to express gratitude and reiterate your interest in the position.
10. Be Patient: Understand that the selection process may take time, and remain patient while awaiting a response.

SAMPLE COVER LETTER FOR A PROCUREMENT INTERNSHIP

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

Hiring Manager

Serena Hotels

[Company Address]

Nairobi, Kenya

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Procurement Internship position at Serena Hotels, as advertised. With a Bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Supplies Management and a passion for the hospitality industry, I am eager to contribute to the procurement processes at Serena Hotels while gaining invaluable experience in supply chain management.

During my academic tenure, I have acquired a solid foundation in procurement principles and supply chain operations. My proficiency in Microsoft Excel and attention to detail have enabled me to streamline procurement processes and maintain accurate records. I am excited about the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge in a dynamic and fast-paced environment at Serena Hotels.

Furthermore, I am impressed by Serena Hotels’ commitment to excellence and staff development. I am eager to learn from seasoned professionals and contribute to the success of the organization. With my strong work ethic, adaptability, and enthusiasm for learning, I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact as a Procurement Intern.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my qualifications align with the needs of Serena Hotels. Please find my resume attached for your review. I am available at your earliest convenience for an interview.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What qualifications are required for the Procurement Intern position at Serena Hotels?

   The minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Supplies Management or CPSP-K Part 3, proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word, and preferably holding a Supplies Practitioners License.

2. Is prior experience in supply chain management necessary for this internship?

   While prior experience is not mandatory, candidates with experience in supply chain management will have an advantage during the selection process.

3. What are the core values Serena Hotels looks for in candidates?

   Serena Hotels values honesty, accuracy, integrity, self-motivation, and teamwork among its employees.

4. How can I apply for the Procurement Internship at Serena Hotels?

   Interested candidates should submit their applications along with certified copies of certificates to jobvacancy.kenya@serenahotels.com with the subject heading “Application for a position as a procurement intern” before the deadline.

5. What are the benefits of being a Procurement Intern at Serena Hotels?

   Benefits include hands-on experience, mentorship from experienced professionals, exposure to diverse procurement practices, and opportunities for growth within the organization.

6. Is travel required for this internship?

   While the position is based in Nairobi, travel to various units within Kenya may be required for exposure and training purposes.

7. What software skills are essential for the Procurement Intern role?

   Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word is essential for managing procurement records and communication.

8. Does Serena Hotels offer opportunities for career advancement after completing the internship?

   Serena Hotels is committed to staff development and offers opportunities for career advancement based on performance and merit.

9. Are interns compensated during their internship at Serena Hotels?

   Serena Hotels offers compensation for interns, details of which will be discussed during the selection process.

10. Does Serena Hotels promote diversity and inclusion in its workforce?

    Yes, Serena Hotels is committed to attracting and retaining employees from diverse backgrounds and does not discriminate based on race, gender, or ethnicity.

Possible Procurement Intern Interview Questions With Answers:

Q1: What motivated you to apply for the Procurement Intern position? A1: I have a keen interest in procurement and supply chain management and see this internship as an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in the field. I am eager to apply my academic knowledge to real-world scenarios and contribute to the success of your procurement team.

Q2: Can you tell us about a time when you had to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment? A2: During my previous internship, I was tasked with managing multiple procurement requests simultaneously. To prioritize effectively, I created a detailed task list, assessed the urgency and importance of each request, and allocated my time accordingly. By staying organized and proactive, I was able to meet all deadlines and deliver quality results.

Q3: How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail when handling procurement documentation? A3: I understand the importance of accuracy in procurement documentation, as even minor errors can have significant consequences. To ensure accuracy, I double-check all information before finalizing documents, use templates and checklists to maintain consistency, and seek feedback from supervisors or colleagues when in doubt.

Q4: How do you handle vendor negotiations and maintain positive relationships with suppliers? A4: I approach vendor negotiations with a collaborative mindset, focusing on finding mutually beneficial solutions. I research market prices and industry standards beforehand, clearly communicate our organization’s needs and expectations, and actively listen to vendors’ concerns. By fostering open communication and transparency, I aim to build and maintain positive long-term relationships with suppliers.

Q5: Can you discuss a time when you identified cost-saving opportunities in procurement processes? A5: In my previous role, I noticed inefficiencies in our procurement workflow that were resulting in unnecessary costs. After conducting a thorough analysis, I proposed implementing a streamlined purchasing process and consolidating orders to take advantage of bulk discounts. As a result, we were able to achieve significant cost savings without compromising quality or delivery timelines.

Q6: How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in procurement? A6: I stay updated on industry trends and best practices by regularly reading industry publications, attending webinars and seminars, and participating in professional networking events. I also actively seek feedback from mentors and colleagues to learn from their experiences and stay informed about emerging trends in procurement.

Q7: Can you describe your experience using procurement software or ERP systems? A7: In my academic coursework and previous internships, I have gained experience using various procurement software and ERP systems, such as SAP, Oracle, and Coupa. I am proficient in navigating these systems to create purchase orders, track inventory levels, and generate reports for analysis.

Q8: How do you handle tight deadlines and unexpected challenges in procurement projects? A8: I thrive in fast-paced environments and am accustomed to working under tight deadlines. When faced with unexpected challenges, I remain calm and focused, assess the situation quickly, and prioritize tasks based on urgency and impact. I am resourceful in finding creative solutions and am not afraid to seek assistance or guidance from colleagues when needed.

Q9: What do you consider to be the most critical factors in ensuring successful procurement outcomes? A9: In my opinion, effective communication, strategic planning, and strong vendor relationships are essential factors in ensuring successful procurement outcomes. Clear communication ensures alignment between stakeholders, strategic planning enables proactive decision-making, and strong vendor relationships facilitate collaboration and negotiation.

Q10: How do you handle confidential information and maintain confidentiality in procurement processes? A10: I understand the importance of confidentiality in procurement processes and adhere to strict confidentiality protocols at all times. I ensure that sensitive information is securely stored and only shared with authorized individuals on a need-to-know basis. I take pride in maintaining the trust and confidentiality of my organization and stakeholders.

These are just examples of questions you might encounter during your interview. Good luck!

THE KENYAN JOB FINDER