We are looking for an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Technical Procurement Officer to oversee and complete our company’s day-to-day purchasing and shipping activities. The ideal candidate will be responsible for sourcing and purchasing quality products and services from our data base of vetted suppliers and ensuring that procurement processes are adhered from requisition through to arranging the dispatch and shipping of these goods, globally. This role requires someone who thrives in an energetic environment and can work collaboratively with various departments.
Responsibilities and tasks include, but not limited to:
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies and procedures
- Prepare and process purchase orders and requisitions.
- Resolve any issues or discrepancies related to procurement processes.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their procurement needs and provide support.
- Analyse procurement data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
- Arrange the collection and shipping of orders/cargo and follow the process through to final delivery
- Technical Sourcing: Process requisitions from Marine and Technical Superintendents for ship machinery, propulsion, safety gear, and electronic navigation systems.
- Vendor Management: Evaluate, select, and audit marine suppliers based on quality, pricing, and global port delivery performance.
- Contract Negotiation: Negotiate commercial terms, volume discounts, warranty conditions, and strict lead times to match vessel schedules.
- Logistics & Delivery: Coordinate worldwide ship-chandler logistics, customs clearances, and critical port-call deliveries.
- Compliance & Quality: Ensure all purchased spares and safety equipment comply with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards, flag state rules, and class societies (e.g., Lloyd's Register, DNV).
- Claims & Resolution: Handle non-conforming or damaged goods delivered to vessels, organising prompt replacements or credit notes.
Skills required:
- Attention to Detail: Keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy in orders, contracts, and inventory management.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact with suppliers and internal teams.
- Problem-Solving Ability: Capable of resolving procurement issues promptly and effectively.
- Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise workload in a fast-paced environment.
- Team Player: Willingness to collaborate and work closely with colleagues in a small, dynamic team setting.
- Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing business needs and market conditions.
- Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with procurement software (ERP, SAP, Mariapps an advantage). Proficient in MS Office.
- Ethical Integrity: Strong ethical standards and integrity in all procurement activities.
Competencies required:
- Delivers the best solutions for the customer both internally and externally.
- Considers potential impact of all actions on our customer and has the aim to achieve a positive outcome for the company at all times.
- Proactive cooperation with the team
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English taking into account the potential impact of any communication.
- Ensures that the appropriate managers are informed about progress and problems to avoid surprises to time delays.
- Works well under pressure often juggling an assortment of tasks and continually reassessing priorities.
- Ability to influence others
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Education: Marine Engineering, or Business Administration.
- Experience: Minimum 3 to 5 years of technical purchasing experience within the maritime, shipping/offshore oil and gas sector.
- Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with ship machinery, engine components, and deck/engine stores.
- Software Skills: Proficiency in ERP systems (such as Oracle, SAP, Mariapps or Amos/Link Maritime purchasing modules) and MS Excel.
- Soft Skills: Strong cross-cultural communication, tactical problem-solving, and resilience in a fast-paced environment.
Hill Robinson believes diversity drives innovation. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from candidates of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, backgrounds, and life experiences. Our commitment is to create an inclusive workplace where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered to thrive.
