Lead Buyer - Software & Hardware

Role Overview:

We are seeking a seasoned Lead Buyer to spearhead our IT procurement strategy in Nigeria, overseeing the end-to-end lifecycle of software and hardware acquisitions. In this high-impact role, you will serve as the primary architect for our technology sourcing, working closely with global IT leadership, finance departments, and external technology partners to ensure our infrastructure remains scalable, cost-efficient, and compliant. Your work will directly influence the organizations operational agility by optimizing vendor relationships and securing mission-critical technology assets that drive business performance across the region. You will be the strategic bridge between technical requirements and commercial viability, ensuring that every investment delivers maximum value to our stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

- Orchestrate complex procurement cycles for enterprise-grade software and hardware to ensure the business maintains a competitive technological edge.

- Lead high-stakes contract negotiations with global and local vendors to secure favorable pricing, service level agreements, and long-term partnership terms.

- Manage comprehensive IT asset management frameworks to track the full lifecycle of technology investments, ensuring optimal utilization and minimizing depreciation.

- Oversee intricate software licensing portfolios to maintain strict compliance with vendor policies while preventing unnecessary expenditure on unused seats.

- Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with key IT vendors to ensure priority support, early access to innovation, and consistent service delivery.

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align procurement strategies with the broader digital transformation roadmap and budgetary constraints.

Required Skillset:

- Demonstrated expertise in managing large-scale IT procurement operations, with a proven ability to navigate complex supply chains and technology ecosystems.

- Exceptional negotiation prowess, evidenced by a track record of securing significant cost savings and favorable commercial terms in high-value technology contracts.

- Advanced proficiency in software licensing models and IT asset management, with the ability to translate technical requirements into robust, compliant procurement strategies.

- Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills, capable of influencing senior leadership and building consensus across diverse, multi-cultural teams.

- Deep understanding of the Nigerian technology market landscape and the regulatory environment governing international IT procurement.

- Ability to thrive in a high-pressure, on-site environment, demonstrating the resilience and adaptability required to lead procurement initiatives in a dynamic regional market.

- A Masters degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred, complemented by 20 to 21 years of progressive experience in IT procurement.