Procurement Head – Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Development (Asia)

About Our Client

Stemgenic is proud to be partnering exclusively with a growing international specialty chemicals manufacturer establishing its new manufacturing operations in Singapore as part of its Asia-Pacific expansion strategy.

The organisation specialises in advanced material technologies including polyurethane, epoxy resin systems, silicone-based materials, adhesives, sealants, and high-performance solutions supporting industries such as e-mobility, energy storage, automotive electronics, industrial electronics, and electrical engineering applications.

With manufacturing and commercial operations across multiple global locations, the company is strengthening its APAC footprint through a new Singapore manufacturing hub designed to support regional customers with enhanced supply chain agility and technical capabilities.

Role Summary

This is a pioneer procurement leadership opportunity responsible for establishing and developing regional sourcing capabilities across Asia.

The successful candidate will take ownership of both operational procurement requirements for the Singapore manufacturing facility and progressively build a strategic supplier network across Asia, with a strong focus on supplier development, sourcing optimisation, and long-term procurement strategy.

This role offers the opportunity to shape the procurement function from the ground up and grow into a broader regional leadership position as the business expands.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Development

Identify, evaluate, and develop suppliers for raw materials, packaging materials, consumables, and manufacturing requirements
Build and expand supplier networks across Asia, particularly China and other strategic sourcing markets
Conduct supplier market mapping, benchmarking, and capability assessments
Develop alternative sourcing strategies to improve supply security and cost competitiveness
Collaborate with global procurement teams to implement regional sourcing strategies

Supplier & Vendor Management

Lead supplier qualification, evaluation, and development activities
Establish strong long-term relationships with regional suppliers
Monitor supplier performance including quality, delivery reliability, service levels, and commercial performance
Support supplier audits and continuous improvement initiatives

Commercial Negotiation & Cost Optimisation

Manage supplier negotiations covering pricing, commercial terms, payment conditions, lead times, and supply arrangements
Analyse market conditions, supplier quotations, and total procurement costs
Identify opportunities for cost optimisation while maintaining quality and supply continuity

Procurement Operations & Supply Continuity

Support day-to-day procurement activities during the plant establishment phase
Manage purchase requisitions, purchase orders, supplier coordination, and delivery tracking
Work closely with Production, Supply Chain, Logistics, Quality, and Technical teams to ensure uninterrupted material availability
Identify supply risks and implement mitigation strategies

Ideal Background

Degree or equivalent qualification in Supply Chain, Procurement, Business, Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related disciplines
Proven experience in procurement, strategic sourcing, or supplier development roles within:
- Specialty Chemicals
- Chemicals / Materials
- Industrial Manufacturing
- Advanced Materials
- Related process industries
Strong experience identifying and developing new suppliers rather than only managing existing contracts
Direct supplier engagement experience in China is strongly preferred
Experience supporting plant startups, greenfield operations, or expanding manufacturing environments is advantageous
Strong commercial negotiation and stakeholder management skills
Comfortable operating in a hands-on, entrepreneurial environment

Why Consider This Opportunity

First regional procurement appointment supporting a new Singapore manufacturing operation
Opportunity to build an APAC supplier network from the ground up
Direct exposure to global procurement leadership and international technical teams
Opportunity to work within an international business environment supporting global markets
Opportunity to own and directly influence sourcing strategy, supplier development, and business growth