Senior Specialist, Procurement

About the role

First Quantum is looking for a Senior Specialist, Procurement to lead its sourcing and procurement team for fixed plant operations. The role delivers timely, commercially sound and compliant supply of stock, non-stock and critical operating requirements, supports the Superintendent Procurement and works closely with Process, Engineering, Inventory, Warehouse, Logistics, Contracts and Finance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead sourcing for fixed plant spares, reagents, grinding media and operating consumables, evaluating total cost, technical compliance, delivery and supply risk, and negotiating terms and award recommendations.
• Ensure accurate purchase orders, timely supplier acknowledgements and effective management of RFQ and order backlogs, expediting critical supplies and escalating shortages.
• Work with Inventory on replenishment, min/max levels and consignment, VMI and phased supply arrangements, and coordinate supplier performance reviews and corrective actions.
• Support supply agreements, FPAs and stocking arrangements with Contracts and Legal, validate pricing and additional charges and maintain auditable records.
• Coach and develop the team, manage workload and performance, and support the Superintendent through delegated responsibilities.
• Use Pronto and Excel to analyse spend, report on backlogs, commitments and supply risks, and close audit actions.
• Apply FQM safety and environmental requirements and maintain confidentiality and ethical supplier relationships.

Required profile

• At least five years of procurement and sourcing experience, preferably in mining, mineral processing or a comparable industrial operation, including at least two years leading or supervising a procurement team.
• Degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Business Administration, Law, Engineering or a related discipline.
• CIPS studies commenced or an equivalent professional qualification; completed CIPS qualifications are an advantage.
• Current membership of the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) with professional standing maintained.

Required skills

• Commercial negotiation, supplier performance and urgent supply management.
• Practical experience with ERP purchasing and inventory processes, preferably Pronto.
• Strong Excel analysis and management reporting skills.
• Experience with consignment or VMI is an advantage.