Purchases Manager (Automotive)

Professional Appointments CC

Senior Procurement & Localization Manager – Automotive - Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Reporting to: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for a visionary Senior Procurement & Localization Manager to join the high-profile leadership team of a global Tier 1 automotive manufacturer. Based in Jeddah, this strategic role is pivotal to the establishment, growth, and long-term success of cutting-edge automotive manufacturing operations within the Kingdom.

Experience & Qualifications ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree or Higher Diploma in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • Industry Experience: Minimum of 10 years of procurement and supply chain experience strictly within the automotive manufacturing industry.
  • Leadership Experience: Minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership or managerial procurement role, ideally within a Tier 1 environment.
  • Proven Track Record: Demonstrated experience managing high-volume automotive sourcing and successful supplier development.
  • Certifications: Professional procurement or operational certifications (e.g., CPSM, Lean, or Six Sigma) are highly advantageous.

Key Skills & Competencies

  • Automotive Expertise: Deep understanding of Tier 1 automotive manufacturing supply chains, complex assemblies, and strict quality standards.
  • GCC/KSA Insights: Proven track record of driving localization and navigating the supplier network within Saudi Arabia or the broader GCC region.
  • Master Negotiator: Strong commercial acumen with the ability to structure complex, high-value global contracts.
  • Cross-Functional Influence: Executive presence with the ability to collaborate effectively across international cultures, time zones, and matrixed business units.
  • Systems Savvy: Advanced proficiency in Tier 1 ERP and procurement systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent).

Key Responsibilities

  • Strategic Sourcing: Develop and execute end-to-end procurement and sourcing strategies aligned with international operational and financial objectives.
  • Localization Leadership: Drive localization initiatives by identifying, onboarding, and mentoring Saudi-based suppliers and in-country content strategies.
  • Supplier Development: Lead supplier evaluation, negotiation, and relationship management for high-volume automotive manufacturing (including injection molding, painted components, and assemblies).
  • Commercial Excellence: Negotiate complex commercial agreements, pricing structures, and contractual terms to ensure optimal cost competitiveness and risk mitigation.
  • Program & Launch Support: Collaborate closely with Engineering, Quality, and Operations to support launch activities and guarantee seamless continuity of supply in a JIT/JIS environment.
  • Team Leadership: Build, mentor, and scale a high-performing procurement organization capable of supporting long-term industrial growth in KSA.
  • Governance & Compliance: Establish procurement KPIs, monitor market risks (commodity and geopolitical), and ensure strict compliance with Saudi regulations and corporate governance.

Please submit your CV and supporting documents to ***email_hidden*** or refer top talent.

Please note

  • Only applicants meeting the minimum requirements will be considered
  • Salary offered will be market-related and dependent on qualifications and experience
  • Applicants who have not been contacted within 30 days should consider their applications unsuccessful.