Lead Procurement Specialist
Kneat enables regulated organizations to move from paper-based validation to intelligent, digitized, paperless solutions. And we do it through the ongoing development of a powerful, purpose-built software platform. In 2014, after eight years of intensive software development, we launched Kneat Gx—the world’s most advanced validation software to help revolutionize the speed, precision, transparency, and intelligence of validation in the Life Sciences sector. Our solution is now used by some of the world’s leading Life Sciences companies.
What we’re looking for
As Kneat continues to expand, we are looking for an enthusiastic Lead Procurement Specialist to join our Operations department.
Position overview
Reporting to our Director, Technical Support, QA Compliance & Business Operations, the Lead Procurement Specialist will oversee the procurement and vendor management processes at Kneat, to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of our business. The role requires a commercially orientated strategic thinker who can optimise procurement strategies, manage vendor negotiations and relationships including all Business Applications. If this sounds like you, we want to hear from you!
Main Responsibilities
- Procurement:
- Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with the company's goals and industry standards.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities and negotiate favourable terms with suppliers and vendors.
- Monitor market trends and technological advancements to make informed decisions about procurement practices.
- Collaborate with various departments to understand their procurement needs and create effective procurement plans.
- Work closely with Finance team to ensure that appropriate internal controls are in place and are being adhered to. Put in place and report appropriate metric in respect of internal control compliance.
- Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation in compliance with company policies and regulations.
- Support the evaluation of all suppliers and all departments.
- Vendor management (negotiate contracts, vendor assessment & approval, vendor master file, vendor set-up, move from credit card to invoicing).
- Overall commercial responsibility for all business applications within Kneat from a supplier standpoint.
- Working with internal stakeholders (such as Finance and Quality), to ensure appropriate analysis is completed, budget is in place, and that approved purchases are cost efficient and of the appropriate quality standard.
- Software renewals management – avoid incidents such as unwanted auto-renewal.
- Supplier relationship management to enable better negotiations on credit terms and pricing (discounts - improved cash flow).
- Travel coordinator - implement and maintain travel management solution e.g., corporate rates, preferred hotels, booking of flights, expenses for the SLT, etc.
- Evaluation of supplier bids through a tendering process e.g., 3 quotes for purchases over 20k.
- Improved purchasing control environment through the centralisation of purchase orders.
- Procurement personnel to complete procurement of all purchases (other than defined exceptions) to ensure we are researching alternative options and deciding on the best option for Kneat.
- All complete purchase orders to be routed to procurement personnel, and procurement personnel will deal with the vendors and place the purchase orders with the vendors.
- Ensure appropriate use of one-time vendor codes.
- Independent confirmation of receipt of services where possible (3-way match control).
- Determining undisclosed commitments (financial reporting disclosure requirement).
- Ensuring purchases and vendor selection are aligned with Kneat’s ESG strategy.
- Vendor Management:
- Establish and nurture strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts, pricing, and terms to optimize value for the organization.
- Monitor vendor performance and conduct periodic evaluations to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery.
- Resolve any vendor-related issues promptly, maintaining open communication and fostering collaboration.
- Manage all vendors throughout its lifecycle including all business applications.
- Main KPIs and Measures of Success
- Purchase orders for everything,
- Effective management of the approved vendor list
Cost reduction of >15% of total spend.
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Minimum qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business Studies / Commerce / Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. A master’s degree is a plus.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement, vendor management, preferably within the SaaS industry or a related field. SaaS software and life sciences experience a plus.
- Strong understanding of procurement processes, negotiation techniques, and vendor relationship management.
- Excellent organisational and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
- Proficiency in using procurement software, inventory management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to act as an individual contributor, manage staff and collaborate effectively across departments and with external stakeholders.
Problem-solving aptitude and a proactive and systematic approach to addressing challenges.
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What we offer you
At Kneat , we truly value ideas and collaboration so we’ve created an environment that builds, protects, and celebrates teamwork. Our strong culture is central to our continued success.
We offer programs and rewards that one would expect from a highly successful and growing technology company.
- A fantastic culture, team, and energy.
- Competitive compensation.
- Comprehensive benefits package.
- Flexible work arrangements.
Training and professional development.
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Kneat is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or veteran status.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities or special needs to perform these essential functions. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation to complete this application form, please contact us at +353 (0)612 038 26 (Ext 2004) or email us at [email protected] for assistance.