Senior Procurement Specialist

PXGEO is an innovative marine geophysical service provider combining the strengths of ocean bottom and towed streamer seismic data acquisition techniques to deliver seamless subsurface imaging for a sustainable future.

Official job title is Senior Supply Chain Specialist - Procurement and is based in Dubai, UAE.

The Senior Supply Chain Specialist - Procurement is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing goods and services essential for the efficient and cost-effective operation of a maritime seismic survey organization. This role involves managing the procurement process for a wide range of maritime and seismic specific requirements, including vessel supplies, equipment, spare parts, maintenance services, port services, seismic acquisition equipment (e.g., streamers, sources, nodes), seismic processing software and hardware, survey vessel services, offshore positioning and navigation systems, and related geophysical technologies. The position requires considerable understanding of the maritime seismic survey industry, the technical specifications of geophysical equipment and services, the unique operational demands of survey vessels, and stringent safety and environmental regulations.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the maritime industry, excellent negotiation skills, and a proven track record in procurement. Key responsibilities include:

Strategic Sourcing:

• Identify, evaluate, and select potential suppliers for maritime goods and services, seismic acquisition equipment (e.g., streamers, sources, nodes), seismic processing software and hardware, survey vessel services, offshore positioning and navigation systems, and related geophysical technologies ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.

Supplier Relationship Management:

• Build and maintain strong collaborative relationships with key global suppliers of maritime and seismic equipment, software, and services, understanding their technological advancements and support capabilities. 
• Communicate effectively with global suppliers of highly technical seismic equipment and services, often involving detailed techno-commercial discussions and negotiations across different cultures and time zones
• Conduct regular performance reviews with critical suppliers, including adherence to highly technical specifications, data quality standards, delivery timelines, and responsiveness to operational needs as well as focusing on technological innovation and long-term partnerships.
• Address any technical, logistical, or performance issues that arise with suppliers, often requiring coordination across international time zones.

Procurement and Purchase Order Management:

• Collaborate closely with technical specialists, IT specialists, project managers and vessel operations teams to understand complex technical specifications and performance requirements for maritime and seismic equipment, software, and services.
• Prepare and issue detailed and technically specific RFQs, RFPs, and RFIs for maritime seismic survey needs.
• Analyze, evaluate and tabulate techno-commercial quotations or proposals from global suppliers. 
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, warranties, delivery schedules and service level agreements to secure the most favorable outcomes for the organization.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders for goods and services efficiently, ensuring accuracy of technical details, configurations, and compliance with project requirements.
• Manage changes to purchase orders, coordinating closely with technical teams, vessel crew, and international suppliers, often under tight deadlines.
• Track and expedite critical orders for equipment and services, which can have a significant impact on operational efficiency.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities within the procurement process without compromising quality or operational efficiency.

Contract Management:

• Assist in the development and review of complex contracts specific to the maritime seismic survey industry, including equipment purchase agreements, forward purchasing agreements, software licenses, vessel charter agreements and specialized service contracts.
• Ensure compliance with contract terms, intellectual property rights, and relevant international legal and regulatory frameworks.
• Review, negotiate, and manage contracts with suppliers, ensuring compliance with legal and company requirements.

Risk Management:

• Identify and mitigate potential risks associated with the maritime supply chain.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks specific to seismic survey procurement, such as delays in the delivery of critical equipment, technical failures impacting data acquisition, and geopolitical factors affecting global supply chains.
• Develop contingency plans for critical maritime seismic supplies and services, considering the remote and offshore nature of operations.
• Collaborate with quality and technical teams and subject matter experts to ensure that procured seismic equipment and services meet stringent technical specifications, data quality standards, and safety regulations (e.g., HSE).
• Monitor supplier adherence to seismic industry quality standards and address any technical or data integrity issues.

Reporting:

• Prepare and present reports on procurement activities, cost savings, and supplier performance.
• Provide insights and recommendations based on data analysis to optimize procurement strategies and ensure project success.

Who are we looking for?

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Engineering, Economics, Science, or related technical discipline from a four-year college or university required
• At least 5 years experience in procurement, with a substantial portion of that experience specifically within the maritime industry managing project / maritime / technology / MRO procurement and strategic sourcing supporting global project operations through the management of a global supply base
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with highly technical and commercial stakeholders globally.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, particularly in addressing the unique technical and logistical challenges of the maritime seismic survey supply chain.
• Proficiency in procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), and potentially specialized ERP software used in the maritime industry.
• Knowledge of international procurement practices, customs regulations, and logistics related to global shipping of specialized equipment including import, export, and customs clearance requirements related to dual use goods.
• Ability to work independently, manage complex and high-value projects, and prioritize in a dynamic and often high-pressure seismic survey environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with meticulous attention to detail, especially when dealing with highly technical and contractual documentation.