Head of Procurement

Role Overview and Responsibilities: Dhruva Space is seeking a strategic Head of Procurement to lead and scale our enterprise procurement framework, supporting rapid growth across our engineering, manufacturing, and satellite operations. You will define global procurement strategy, build a world-class supplier ecosystem, drive multi-million-dollar cost optimizations, and ensure supply continuity for mission-critical components. The ideal candidate is a seasoned supply chain leader with a proven track record in global strategic sourcing, complex commercial negotiations, and procurement transformation, specifically within aerospace, defence, advanced electronics, or high-reliability engineering environments. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Architect and execute the enterprise-wide procurement strategy, policies, and governance frameworks. Oversee end-to-end global sourcing across high-reliability EEE components, aerospace mechanicals, manufacturing equipment, and complex project requirements. Build a highly resilient, globally scalable supplier ecosystem and drive executive-level alliances to ensure long-term capacity and business continuity. Lead complex commercial negotiations, establishing Long-Term Supply Agreements (LTSAs), favorable pricing matrices, and strategic payment terms. Champion enterprise-wide cost optimization, value engineering (VAVE), and total cost of ownership (TCO) initiatives. Partner with Engineering and Quality to design rigorous supplier performance frameworks, drive capability development, and execute proactive risk mitigation. Build, scale, and mentor a high-performing Procurement organization, driving structural design, succession planning, and a culture of high accountability. Establish audit-ready compliance controls, clear approval matrices, and stringent risk management protocols. Collaborate with Finance and Supply Chain to optimize procurement budgets, working capital, inventory turnover, and material flow. Spearhead procurement digitalization and ensure absolute data integrity and process governance through SAP MM and related ERP workflows. Drive data-driven executive decision-making across procurement, supplier performance, cost, risk, and supply-chain metrics to support business and operational objectives. Candidate Requirements Master’s or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related discipline. 15+ years of progressive global procurement experience, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership capacity. Proven executive experience scaling procurement functions in aerospace, space-tech, defence, advanced electronics, or complex deep-tech environments. Mastery of global strategic sourcing, contract law, and managing high-value, highly complex technical categories (especially EEE and precision mechanicals). Exceptional executive negotiation skills with a history of driving enterprise-level cost savings and securing highly favorable commercial terms. Proven ability to design governance frameworks, procurement SOPs, and compliance structures from scratch. Strong architectural and operational understanding of SAP MM (Materials Management) and driving procurement operations through major ERP scaling phases. Demonstrated ability to develop and execute enterprise-wide procurement strategies aligned with business growth, operational priorities, and long-term organizational objectives. Strong expertise in global supply chain resilience, supplier ecosystem development, strategic supplier relationships, and business continuity planning. Proven ability to lead procurement transformation, build high-performing teams, establish accountability frameworks, and develop organizational succession plans. Strong understanding of procurement risk management, governance, compliance, and executive-level decision-making in complex operating environments. Highly analytical and data-driven approach to procurement strategy, commercial decision-making, supplier performance, and cost optimization. Preferred Skills and Experience Extensive network and experience procuring space-grade/military-grade EEE components and precision machined parts. Deep knowledge of AS9100D quality standards and rigorous aerospace supplier qualification practices. Proven experience navigating global supply chain disruptions, ITAR regulations, customs, and complex Incoterms. Strategic professional certifications (FCIPS, CPSM, CSCP, or equivalent). Experience in procurement digitalization, analytics, and enterprise-wide ERP transformation.