The role of the Assistant Director will be to manage the procurement of technology products, including hardware and software services, at an agreed set of Service Level Agreements and Key Performance Indicators. The role will work closely with the Global Tax Sourcing  Leader and the GDS Technology Sourcing leaders supporting stakeholders located in Japan.  

The role holder will be expected to form lasting relationships with leaders and other key stakeholders/ clients, mostly from Japan, to drive the development of the procurement organization.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Strict adherence to the Procurement Policy set by the CPO

• Ensure delivery of quantitative and qualitative value

• Manage the overall quality of service across all procurement processes on a timely basis

• Lead interactions with suppliers as well as contract negotiations

• Continually challenge existing ways of working. Identify and develop new opportunities for standardization and consistency in service delivery

• Engage and create meaningful and productive business relationships with Japanese and other Asia/PAC stakeholders and suppliers

• Contribute to overall procurement strategy and initiatives as determined

• Lead multiple low to high complexity technology sourcing projects in Japan.

• Responsible for driving engagement across Japanese stakeholders.

• Ensure execution of Japanese and other Asia/PAC projects in a timely manner. 

• Follow sourcing strategies being implemented by procurement leaders.

• Maintain highest levels of integrity and ethical procurement process and policies.

• Think creatively and provide innovative suggestions that will improve service delivery. Focus on delivering Exceptional Client Service

• Adhere to global standards of negotiation and deal closing capabilities

• Swift decision making capabilities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Think creatively and provide innovative suggestions that will improve service delivery

• Prioritize and manage the implementation of multiple initiatives to improve productivity and efficiency.

• Apply  previous working experience and knowledge to work in a Global business environment

• Show in-depth understanding of technology procurement and process details that go into deal closure

• Able to handle discussions with senior leaders across the Procurement organization to help drive decision making

• Proven ability to lead stakeholders and demonstrate leadership competencies

• Excellent organization, analytical and problem-solving skills

• Strong communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills – able to handle conflict situations and resolve issues satisfactorily

• Demonstrable facilitation and presentation skills

• Ability to explain the decisions being taken to close procurement deals and share the outcome of the same

• Strong communication (verbal and written) in English and Japanese languages.

• At least 8-10 years of relevant progressive experience from a large organization, either a partnership or multi-national corporation

• In depth working experience of technology procurement

• Proven working experience in collaborating with offshore teams and leadership

• Bachelor’s degree or above from an Engineering, commercial, business or Supply Chain related discipline.