Job Title : Senior Specialist – Programs Development
Location : [Location]
Reports to : Manager – Programs Development
Industry : Defense Procurement
Job Overview :
We are looking for a detail-oriented and strategic Senior Specialist to join our defense programs development team. The Senior Specialist will be responsible for managing the end-to-end procurement and acquisition process of defense-related products, services, and technologies. This individual will ensure that all acquisitions are aligned with an in-house project management system, the client needs , and compliant with defense sector regulations, while fostering relationships with suppliers and negotiating favorable terms. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the defense industry and its procurement frameworks.
Key Responsibilities :
- Procurement and Acquisition Management :
- Lead the acquisition process for defense-related equipment, services, and technologies, ensuring alignment with both client and organizational requirements.
- Develop and execute acquisition strategies that meet project objectives, cost efficiency, and delivery timelines.
- Ensure all acquisitions comply with defense procurement regulations and contractual requirements.
- Supplier & Vendor Management :
- Identify, evaluate, and establish relationships with defense suppliers and vendors globally.
- Negotiate contracts, terms, and conditions with suppliers to secure cost-effective and timely delivery of goods and services.
- Monitor supplier performance and ensure adherence to contractual obligations and quality standards.
- Contract and Risk Management :
- Prepare, review, and manage request for proposals, budgetary proposals, bids, contracts and procurement documents in accordance with legal and defense regulatory frameworks.
- Identify potential risks in the acquisition process and implement risk mitigation strategies.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant export control regulations, ITAR, and other defense-related policies.
- Market Research & Analysis :
- Conduct market research to identify emerging defense technologies, suppliers, and acquisition trends.
- Analyze market conditions to optimize purchasing decisions and negotiate the best terms for procurement contracts.
- Provide insights and recommendations to leadership based on market intelligence and defense industry developments.
- Collaboration & Stakeholder Management :
- Work closely with cross-functional teams including project management execution , legal, finance, and technical teams to ensure smooth execution of acquisitions.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including clients and government entities, to ensure acquisition goals are met.
- Act as a point of contact between the company, vendors, and clients on all matters related to defense acquisitions.
- Documentation & Reporting :
- Maintain accurate and detailed records of procurement activities, contracts, and communications with suppliers.
- Provide regular reporting on acquisition progress, budget adherence, and supplier performance.
- Ensure compliance with defense sector audit requirements, including documentation for traceability and regulatory compliance.
Qualifications & Experience :
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in procurement, acquisition, or supply chain management, preferably with at least 3 years in the defense sector.
- Strong knowledge of defense procurement laws, regulations, and frameworks (e.g., FAR, DFARS, ITAR).
- Experience in working with international defense suppliers and government clients , preferably locally .
- Proven ability to manage multiple procurement projects and negotiate complex contracts.
Skills :
- Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
- Proficient in procurement software and tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle Procurement, or similar).
- High attention to detail with a focus on compliance and quality assurance.
- Ability to manage time effectively and meet strict deadlines.
Key Competencies :
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
- Knowledge of defense technologies and industry trends.
- Strong ethical judgment and adherence to defense acquisition regulations.
Security Clearance :
- Must have, or be eligible to obtain, a security clearance in accordance with defense sector requirement