Chief Procurement Officer Job Vacancy in Narok, Kenya – Mining and Mineral Extraction

Job Description

Position: Chief Procurement Officer

Company: Rio Tinto

Location: Narok, Kenya

Experience: 15+ years

Education: Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management or MBA

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Mining and Mineral Extraction

Department: Global Procurement and Logistics

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

Rio Tinto is a leading global mining company committed to providing the materials essential to human progress. With a legacy of innovation and a focus on sustainable extraction, we operate some of the world’s largest mines, producing iron ore, aluminum, copper, and diamonds. Our presence in Kenya is focused on exploring strategic mineral deposits while adhering to the highest standards of environmental stewardship and community engagement. As we expand our footprint, we are dedicated to creating long-term value for our shareholders and the local communities in which we operate. We believe in fostering a culture of safety, inclusivity, and excellence, ensuring that every employee has the opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to a sustainable future. Our operations are characterized by the integration of cutting-edge technology and a deep respect for the land and people of Kenya.

Job Overview

The Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) will be a critical executive leader responsible for the strategic oversight of all procurement activities within our Kenyan mining operations. This role is designed for a visionary leader who can optimize complex supply chains in remote environments, ensuring that critical machinery, chemicals, and services are delivered efficiently and ethically. The CPO will lead the transition toward a more sustainable and localized procurement model, reducing reliance on international imports and empowering local Kenyan suppliers. This is a high-impact role that requires a balance of strategic planning and operational agility to navigate the volatile commodities market. For those seeking premier Career Opportunities in Kenya, this position offers the chance to shape the procurement architecture of a global giant. You will be tasked with implementing rigorous cost-control measures while maintaining the highest quality standards to ensure zero downtime in mining production. To learn more about the current landscape of Employment in Kenya, visit https://kenyajobsearch.com for industry insights.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive procurement strategy aligned with Rio Tinto’s global sustainability goals and local Kenyan regulations.
• Lead the negotiation of multi-million dollar contracts with international equipment manufacturers and local service providers.
• Implement a robust vendor management system to evaluate supplier performance, risk, and compliance with ethical sourcing standards.
• Collaborate with the mining operations team to forecast demand for critical spares and consumables to prevent operational bottlenecks.
• Drive the “Local Content” initiative to increase the percentage of procurement spend within the Narok region and wider Kenya.
• Oversee the procurement budget, ensuring strict adherence to financial targets and implementing cost-saving initiatives across the supply chain.
• Manage the end-to-end lifecycle of procurement, from sourcing and tendering to contract management and final delivery.

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Required Skills

• Expertise in Strategic Sourcing and Category Management within the heavy industry or mining sector.
• Advanced negotiation skills with a proven track record of managing high-value, complex international contracts.
• Deep understanding of Incoterms, customs regulations, and international logistics frameworks.
• Proficiency in ERP systems such as SAP Ariba or Oracle Procurement Cloud.
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing diverse, cross-functional teams in remote locations.
• Exceptional analytical skills to interpret market trends and mitigate supply chain risks.

Education

The successful candidate must possess a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from a recognized institution. Professional certification such as MCIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply) is highly preferred and will be considered a significant advantage.

Experience

A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in procurement and supply chain management is required, with at least 5 years in a senior executive role. Experience within the mining, oil and gas, or heavy construction industries is essential. The candidate must demonstrate a history of successfully managing procurement for large-scale industrial projects in emerging markets, specifically within the African continent.

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Benefits

• Competitive executive salary package with performance-based annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance for the employee and their immediate family.
• Relocation assistance and housing allowance for candidates moving to the Narok region.
• Company vehicle and dedicated driver for operational use.
• Generous retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Access to global leadership development programs and executive coaching.

Training

• Advanced training in Sustainable Procurement and Circular Economy principles.
• Certification in Rio Tinto’s Global Safety and Ethics Compliance framework.
• Leadership workshops focused on managing multicultural teams in remote environments.
• Technical training on the latest AI-driven procurement analytics tools.

Working Environment

This position is based in Narok, Kenya, and involves a hybrid working arrangement. While the executive office is the primary base, the CPO will spend significant time visiting mine sites and meeting with suppliers in various locations. The environment is fast-paced and demanding, requiring the ability to work in remote areas with challenging terrain. We are currently Hiring in Kenya for individuals who are resilient, adaptable, and passionate about the mining industry’s role in global development.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a detailed cover letter outlining their strategic achievements in procurement. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a rigorous multi-stage interview process, including a technical assessment and a presentation to the regional executive board. We encourage all qualified professionals looking for Jobs in Kenya to apply through our official corporate portal.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Rio Tinto is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, religion, gender, age, or disability. We actively encourage applications from qualified female candidates and individuals from underrepresented communities in the mining sector.