Chief Procurement Officer Job Vacancy in Sangmélima, Cameroon – Retail and Consumer Goods

Job Description

Position: Chief Procurement Officer

Company: Unilever

Location: Sangmélima, Cameroon

Experience: 12+ years

Education: Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management or MBA

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Retail and Consumer Goods

Department: Procurement

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

Unilever is a global leader in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, dedicated to making sustainable living commonplace. With a vast portfolio of brands that touch the lives of billions of people daily, we operate with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Our presence in Africa, and specifically our expansion within Cameroon, is driven by a desire to bring high-quality, sustainable products to diverse markets while empowering local communities. We believe in a purpose-led business model where growth is decoupled from our environmental footprint. By integrating cutting-edge technology with ethical sourcing, Unilever continues to redefine the retail landscape. For those seeking high-impact Career Opportunities in Cameroon, we provide a workplace that fosters innovation, inclusivity, and professional growth. Our organizational culture is built on the pillars of integrity, respect, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in every product we deliver to the consumer.

Job Overview

The Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) will be the strategic architect of our sourcing and acquisition framework in the South Region. This executive role is critical for ensuring that our raw materials and finished goods are sourced ethically, cost-effectively, and sustainably. As we scale our operations, the CPO will lead the transformation of our supply network to mitigate risks and optimize costs. This is a premier Job Vacancy in Cameroon for a leader who can balance global corporate standards with local market nuances. The successful candidate will oversee the entire procurement lifecycle, from vendor selection and contract negotiation to quality assurance and logistics integration. You will be responsible for driving the “Sustainable Sourcing” initiative, ensuring that all partners adhere to our strict environmental and labor standards. This role is pivotal for anyone looking for stable Employment in Cameroon within a Fortune 500 environment.

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Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive procurement strategy aligned with Unilever’s global sustainability goals.
• Lead high-stakes negotiations with international and local suppliers to secure favorable pricing and terms.
• Implement advanced spend analysis tools to identify cost-saving opportunities across all product categories.
• Manage the end-to-end supplier relationship management (SRM) process to ensure long-term partnership stability.
• Collaborate with the logistics and manufacturing teams to synchronize procurement schedules with production needs.
• Oversee the compliance of all procurement activities with Cameroonian trade laws and international regulations.
• Drive the adoption of digital procurement platforms to automate workflows and increase transparency.
• Mentor and lead a diverse team of procurement managers and specialists to achieve operational excellence.

Required Skills

• Expertise in Strategic Sourcing and Category Management within the FMCG sector.
• Advanced negotiation skills with a proven track record of delivering significant cost reductions.
• Deep understanding of sustainable procurement practices and ethical sourcing certifications.
• Proficiency in ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle for procurement and inventory management.
• Strong leadership capabilities with the ability to manage cross-functional teams in a multicultural setting.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to translate complex data into actionable procurement strategies.
• Excellent communication skills in English and French to navigate local and global stakeholder relations.

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Education

Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration (MBA), or a closely related field from a recognized university. Professional certifications such as CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) or MCIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) are highly preferred and will be considered a significant advantage.

Experience

A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in procurement or supply chain management is required, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or executive capacity. Experience working within the retail or consumer goods industry is essential. We are looking for a candidate who has successfully managed multi-million dollar budgets and has a history of optimizing supply chains in emerging markets. Proven experience in Hiring in Cameroon or managing Cameroonian vendor networks is a strong plus.

Benefits

• Competitive executive salary package with performance-based annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for the employee and their immediate family.
• Relocation assistance and housing allowance for candidates moving to Sangmélima.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for business-related travel.
• Generous paid time off and sabbatical options for long-term employees.
• Access to global mobility programs for international assignments.

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Training

• Executive leadership training through the Unilever Global Leadership Academy.
• Certification courses in Sustainable Sourcing and Circular Economy.
• Advanced workshops on Digital Transformation in Procurement.
• Regular seminars on international trade law and customs regulations.

Working Environment

The working environment is a blend of corporate office management and field visits to supplier sites. The CPO will operate out of our regional hub in Sangmélima, requiring a high degree of autonomy and the ability to travel frequently across the region. We promote a culture of agility, where fast decision-making is balanced with rigorous risk assessment. This role offers a dynamic atmosphere where you will interact with both local farmers and global executives, making it one of the most exciting Jobs in Cameroon today.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a detailed cover letter outlining their strategic achievements in procurement. Applications will be screened for technical alignment, followed by a series of behavioral and strategic interviews. Shortlisted candidates will be required to present a 90-day procurement optimization plan for the South Region. Only candidates who meet the strict experience and education requirements will be contacted for the first round of interviews.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Unilever is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage women and underrepresented groups to apply for this leadership position.