Procurement Manager – LV Switchgear & Automation Location: UAE Job Purpose The Procurement Manager is responsible for strategic and operational procurement of materials, components, and services required for LV switchgear and automation manufacturing, ensuring cost competitiveness, quality compliance, and on-time delivery in line with project schedules and production plans. The role includes support various infrastructure, utility and oil & gas projects (ADNOC, DEWA, Etihad WE, TRANSCO) while ensuring compliance with approved vendor requirements, technical standards, and internal controls. Key Responsibilities Procurement Strategy & Planning Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with production plans and project requirements. Convert material planning outputs and BOMs into optimized sourcing and purchasing plans. Ensure availability of critical long-lead items (breakers, MCCBs, ACBs, relays, PLCs, enclosures, copper, busbars, cables).
Supplier Management & Development Identify, evaluate, onboard, and manage approved and strategic suppliers for LV switchgear components. Maintain supplier compliance with ADNOC, DEWA, Etihad WE, TRANSCO, and ISO requirements. Conduct supplier performance reviews covering quality, delivery, cost, responsiveness, and technical capability. Lead supplier negotiations on pricing, lead times, payment terms, and framework agreements. Develop alternate and local sourcing strategies to mitigate supply chain risks.
Project & Production Support Collaborate closely with material planning, production, engineering, QA/QC, and project teams to ensure procurement aligns with project milestones. Prioritize procurement activities for critical and fast-track projects. Support engineering substitutions and BOM changes, ensuring technical compliance and approvals.
Cost Control & Commercial Excellence Drive cost reduction initiatives through strategic sourcing, value engineering, and long-term agreements. Prepare and manage procurement budgets, cost tracking, and savings reports. Analyze market trends, commodity prices (copper, steel), and supply risks impacting LV switchgear manufacturing.
ERP & Process Management (SAP MM) Oversee procurement operations using SAP MM, including:Purchase requisitions & purchase orders Vendor master and material master governance Goods receipt and invoice reconciliation Monitor open PO status, lead times, delivery performance, and inventory exposure. Improve procurement workflows, controls, and reporting accuracy.
Compliance, Quality & Risk Management Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, utility standards, ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and HSE requirements. Coordinate with QA/QC for incoming material inspections, vendor audits, and NCR resolutions. Identify and mitigate supply chain risks related to single sourcing, geopolitical issues, or capacity constraints.
Team Leadership & Development Lead and mentor the procurement and expediting team, ensuring alignment with business priorities. Promote cross-functional collaboration and continuous improvement culture.
Qualifications & Experience Education Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical / Electrical / Industrial Engineering. Professional certifications (CIPS, CPM, CSCP) are an advantage.
Experience7-8 years of procurement experience in LV switchgear, electrical panels, automation, or EPC/manufacturing environment. Proven experience handling utility and oil & gas clients (ADNOC, DEWA, Etihad WE, TRANSCO or similar). Strong exposure to SAP MM in a manufacturing environment.
Technical & Functional Skills Strong knowledge of LV switchgear components and specifications. Understanding of BOM structures, production planning, and project-based manufacturing. Expertise in supplier negotiation, contract management, and cost optimization. Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and compliance documents.
Preferred Attributes Experience with approved vendor environments and strict client audits. Familiarity with local UAE suppliers and global OEMs (Schneider, ABB, Siemens, Eaton, LS, etc.). Knowledge of lean procurement and supply chain best practices.