Procurement Specialist at KONE East Africa

Senior Procurement Specialist at KONE East Africa

Job Title: Senior Procurement Specialist

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Time Type: Full-time

Job Requisition ID: R0636523

Company Overview:

Did you know KONE moves over one billion people every day? We employ over 57,000 driven professionals in over 60 countries worldwide joined together by a shared vision. As a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, it is our mission to improve the flow of urban life.

Job Summary:

KONE Kenya is seeking an energetic and enthusiastic Senior Procurement Specialist to join our team in Nairobi, Kenya. Reporting directly to the Head of Procurement – KONE Middle East, Turkey, and Africa, the Senior Procurement Specialist will play a pivotal role in our procurement activities, contributing to our mission of enhancing urban life through efficient flow solutions.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning and Management:

• Define source plans for customer projects in collaboration with the project team.
• Run RFQs for project-specific materials and negotiate contracts with suppliers.
• Identify and negotiate frame contracts and price lists for direct materials and spares.
• Conduct thorough market analysis to support supply chain management.

2. Supplier Relationship Management:

• Identify local sourcing opportunities and manage local material and service providers.
• Lead negotiations with local suppliers and ensure contract validity and pricing accuracy.
• Conduct regular steering meetings with suppliers to address challenges and drive resolution.
• Implement supplier-specific processes and conduct quality audits and risk management solutions.

3. Qualifications and Skills Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain or Procurement.
• Minimum 4-6 years of experience in procurement and supply chain management.
• Knowledge of supply markets, drivers, and technology relevant to procurement.
• Experience in a multinational and matrix organization preferred.
• Strong ethics, compliance, and process orientation.
• Excellent communication and customer relationship skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.

4. What We Offer:

• A dynamic team environment promoting collaboration and innovation.
• Total reward elements designed to engage and motivate our employees.
• Comprehensive learning and development programs covering a wide range of professional skills.
• Clear job description and targets with regular performance feedback.
• Opportunities for individual development through mentoring and coaching programs.
• Flexibility, trust, and respect in the workplace.
• A value-based culture focusing on sustainability, innovation, and ethical business practices.
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth within a successful organization.

5. Application Process:

CLICK APPLY AT THE END OF THIS PAGE

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete an automated video interview. Please ensure to regularly check your email inbox, including the spam folder, for the interview link.

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About Us:

At KONE, we are committed to creating an innovative and collaborative working culture where every individual’s contribution is valued. We prioritize employee engagement, sustainability, and ethical business practices, fostering a culture of trust, respect, and recognition of good performance. Join us and explore a range of experiences and opportunities to achieve your career and personal goals while living a healthy and balanced life.

Sample Cover Letter for a Senior Procurement Specialist Position at KONE East Africa

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

KONE East Africa

[Nairobi Address]

Nairobi, Kenya

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Senior Procurement Specialist position at KONE East Africa, as advertised. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain and over six years of experience in procurement and supply chain management, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team and support KONE’s mission of improving urban life through efficient flow solutions.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a strong track record in strategic planning and management, negotiating contracts, and managing supplier relationships. I am adept at conducting market analysis, identifying sourcing opportunities, and driving cost-saving initiatives. My experience in multinational organizations has equipped me with the skills to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, where collaboration and innovation are key drivers of success.

I am particularly drawn to the opportunity to work with a dynamic team at KONE East Africa, promoting a culture of collaboration and innovation. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to KONE’s success and leveraging my skills and experience to drive procurement activities and support the organization’s growth objectives.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm align with the needs of your team. Please find my resume attached for your review, and feel free to contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to schedule an interview.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Procurement Specialist Position:

1. What are the key responsibilities of the Senior Procurement Specialist role at KONE East Africa?

• The key responsibilities include strategic planning, supplier management, negotiation, market analysis, and contract management.

2. What qualifications are required for the Senior Procurement Specialist position?

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain or Procurement and a minimum of 4-6 years of experience in procurement and supply chain management.

3. How can I apply for the Senior Procurement Specialist position at KONE East Africa?

• Interested candidates can apply through the KONE careers portal or submit their application via email as per the instructions provided in the job posting.

4. What is the interview process like for the Senior Procurement Specialist position?

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete an automated video interview as the initial step in the interview process.

5. Does KONE East Africa offer opportunities for career development and growth?

• Yes, KONE East Africa provides comprehensive learning and development programs, mentoring, coaching, and opportunities for individual development and advancement within the organization.

6. What is the company culture like at KONE East Africa?

• KONE East Africa promotes a collaborative and innovative working culture, prioritizing employee engagement, sustainability, and ethical business practices.

7. Are there opportunities for remote work or flexible schedules at KONE East Africa?

• The availability of remote work or flexible schedules may vary depending on the nature of the role and business requirements.

8. How does KONE East Africa support sustainability initiatives?

• KONE East Africa integrates sustainability into its daily practices and follows ethical business practices to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable development.

9. Is there room for advancement within the procurement department at KONE East Africa?

• Yes, KONE East Africa values employee growth and offers opportunities for advancement within the procurement department based on performance and qualifications.

10. Does KONE East Africa charge any application or recruitment fees? –

• No, KONE East Africa is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any application or recruitment fees, whether refundable or not.

Possible Senior Procurement Specialist Interview Questions with Answers:

1. Can you walk us through your experience in procurement and supply chain management?

• Certainly. I have over six years of experience in procurement and supply chain management, during which I have managed various aspects such as strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and contract negotiation.

2. How do you approach supplier negotiations to ensure favorable outcomes for the organization?

• I believe in establishing strong relationships with suppliers based on mutual trust and respect. I prepare thoroughly by conducting market research and understanding the supplier’s capabilities and objectives. During negotiations, I focus on creating value for both parties while ensuring that our organization’s interests are protected.

3. How do you stay updated on industry trends and market dynamics relevant to procurement?

• I stay updated through industry publications, attending conferences and seminars, and networking with peers and industry experts. I also leverage online resources and engage in continuous learning to stay informed about emerging trends and best practices in procurement.

4. Can you provide an example of a challenging procurement project you managed and how you successfully navigated it?

• Certainly. In my previous role, we had to source a critical component for a major project within a tight deadline. I proactively reached out to multiple suppliers, negotiated favorable terms, and managed to secure the required materials within the timeframe, ensuring the project’s success.

5. How do you prioritize competing demands and manage multiple projects simultaneously?

• I prioritize based on strategic importance, urgency, and resource availability. I regularly communicate with stakeholders to align priorities and manage expectations. Additionally, I use project management tools to track progress and ensure timely completion of tasks.

6. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with suppliers or internal stakeholders?

• I believe in open and transparent communication to address conflicts constructively. I actively listen to all parties involved, seek common ground, and work towards mutually beneficial solutions. If necessary, I escalate issues to higher management for resolution.

7. How do you ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and ethical standards in procurement processes?

• I stay informed about relevant regulations and standards and incorporate them into our procurement policies and procedures. I also conduct regular audits and reviews to ensure adherence to compliance requirements and ethical practices throughout the procurement process.

8. How do you assess supplier performance and manage supplier relationships effectively?

• I establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate supplier performance objectively. I conduct regular performance reviews, provide feedback, and collaborate with suppliers to address any issues or areas for improvement. Building trust and maintaining open communication are crucial for effective supplier relationship management.

9. Can you share an example of a cost-saving initiative you implemented in a previous role?

• Certainly. I identified an opportunity to consolidate our supplier base and negotiate volume discounts for bulk purchases. By streamlining our procurement processes and leveraging economies of scale, we were able to achieve significant cost savings without compromising quality or service levels.

10. How do you stay motivated and continue to grow professionally in the field of procurement? –

• I am passionate about procurement and supply chain management, and I thrive on challenges and opportunities for growth. I actively seek out learning opportunities, set personal and professional development goals, and collaborate with colleagues to exchange knowledge and best practices. Continuous improvement and innovation drive my motivation to excel in my role.

Best wishes on your application! We are committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all races and backgrounds in our continued effort to become a better development partner. We are an equal employer and do not charge any application/recruitment fees, whether refundable or not.

Thank you for considering a career with KONE East Africa!

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