Senior Purchasing Officer

Job Purpose

The Senior Purchasing Officer is responsible for leading and overseeing procurement activities across the University, ensuring cost efficiency, compliance, and timely delivery of goods and services. The role includes vendor management, process optimization, and supervision of purchasing operations to support institutional objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end procurement cycle, including requisitions, purchase orders, vendor coordination, and delivery tracking 

• Ensure timely processing of procurement requests and accurate goods receipt, resolving discrepancies when required

• Oversee procurement activities through the University’s ERP system (Oracle), ensuring accuracy, proper approvals, and budget alignment 

• Maintain supplier records, contracts, and procurement documentation 

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers; lead negotiations to secure competitive pricing and favorable terms 

• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships and conduct periodic performance evaluations 

• Ensure procurement activities comply withUniversity policies, internal controls, and applicable regulations 

• Monitor procurement expenditures and support budget control through cost-effective purchasing practices 

• Identify cost-saving opportunities and improve procurement efficiency 

• Collaborate with departments to understand procurement needs and provide guidance on processes 

• Act as the main point of contact for procurement-related matters 

• Prepare procurement reports, spend analysis, and vendor performance summaries 

• Analyze purchasing trends and provide recommendations to management 

• Identify process gaps and support continuous improvement of procurement workflows and policies 

• Supervise and guide purchasing staff (if applicable), ensuring performance and adherence to procedures 

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Finance, or related field 

• Minimum 5–7 years of procurement experience

• Experience with ERP systems, preferably Oracle 

• Strong knowledge of vendor management, negotiation, and procurement processes 

• Good understanding of the Kuwait market 

• Strong analytical and communication skills 

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certification (e.g., CIPS) 

• Experience in higher education or large organizations 

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking 

• Negotiation and influencing 

• Attention to detail 

• Process improvement 

• Ability to manage multiple priorities 

• Leadership and accountability

About American International University:

AIU is a new institution of higher education in Kuwait with the first student cohort admitted in fall 2019. It is a private, co-educational institution offering undergraduate degrees based on the American model of higher education. Through its educational programs, the University serves the intellectual, cultural, and personal growth of all members of its community. AIU’s offers degree programs in Engineering, Architecture, and Design, and Business Administration where the language of instruction is English.

For more information about AIU visit: www.aiu.edu.kw

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should visit the Job Opportunities section on our website and submit a resume and cover letter via: https://aiu.edu.kw/careers/jobs