Head of Procurement, OFF, Europe Regional Headquarters.

The Company.

Founded in 1955, Yusen Logistics is a global supply chain logistics company that provides ocean and air freight forwarding, warehousing, distribution services, and supply chain management – a seamlessly connected suite of supply chain solutions that delivers superior value, reliability, and expertise. Yusen Logistics is committed to developing employees that deliver consistent quality and service to our customers, and providing them with the skills, training, support, and opportunities they need to be successful. As a company we’re dedicated to a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring everyone who works with us is committed, connected and creative in making us the world’s preferred choice.

About The JOB

The Head of Procurement – Operational Freight Forwarding (OFF) is a strategic leadership role responsible for optimizing OFF procurement across Europe. This position focuses on driving cost efficiencies, improving operational performance, and aligning regional procurement strategies with global objectives.

The role involves leading the European Procurement Team, managing carrier negotiations, pricing, and tender processes, while ensuring compliance with company policies. The successful candidate will build and maintain strong relationships with carriers, subcontractors, and key stakeholders, fostering partnerships that enhance cost control and operational efficiency.

This role is instrumental in achieving business goals by streamlining procurement processes, supporting strategic planning, and contributing to the overall success of the organization’s freight forwarding operations.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Cost Optimization

• Develop and execute a comprehensive procurement strategy for Operational Freight Forwarding (OFF) aligned with regional and global objectives.
• Lead negotiations with carriers and subcontractors to secure competitive rates, favorable terms, and high-quality services.
• Drive cost control initiatives, streamline processes, and enhance procurement efficiency across the European region.
• Ensure Operating Companies (OPCOs) comply with the global carrier strategy and align their operations with procurement goals.
• Coordinate between the European OPCOs and the Hong Kong Procurement Team to ensure seamless collaboration and alignment of procurement strategies, processes, and objectives.
  
  
  

Carrier and Supplier Management

• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with carriers to foster trust and mutual support.
• Negotiate ocean freight rates and side term conditions to improve buy rates, terms, and commitments from carriers.
• Monitor supplier performance to ensure compliance with contracts, service levels, and quality standards.
• Act as a central liaison between internal teams and external vendors, ensuring seamless collaboration and communication.
  
  
  

Pricing, Tender, and Investment Management

• Guide OPCOs and Network Companies in setting competitive and market-appropriate pricing strategies that support business acquisition and margin maintenance.
• Oversee pre-tender alignment and tender processes, optimizing participation and improving the winning ratio of bids.
• Evaluate investment opportunities through detailed risk assessments and ROI analyses to support prudent decision-making aligned with long-term goals.
  
  
  

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead and manage the European Procurement Team, fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance.
• Set clear objectives and performance metrics to align team efforts with organizational procurement goals.
• Provide ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance team capabilities and prepare them for future challenges.
  
  
  

Data-Driven Insights and Compliance

• Utilize data analytics and market insights to identify trends, assess risks, and refine procurement strategies.
• Monitor procurement performance metrics, offering actionable insights and reports to senior leadership.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, industry regulations, and ethical procurement practices while mitigating procurement-related risks, such as supply chain disruptions or vendor non-compliance.
  
  
  

Qualifications And Skills

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
  
  
  

Experience:

• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in procurement, supply chain management, or logistics, with at least 5 – 7 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in freight forwarding or logistics is highly desirable.
  
  
  

Skills:

• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
• Excellent analytical skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Proficiency in procurement software and tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar systems).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Familiarity with European transportation and logistics regulations is an advantage.
  
  
  

COMPETENCES

• Ability to facilitate multitasks
• Self-motivated
• Ability to work with tolerance in a high-pressure challenging environment
  
  
  

Key Success Criteria

• Demonstrated cost savings and efficiency improvements through strategic procurement initiatives.
• Effective team leadership and development, with clear performance metrics achieved.
• Strong carrier relationships that ensure consistent service quality, favorable terms, and compliance.
• Implementation of innovative procurement practices that align with company objectives.
• Increased tender win ratios through efficient and well-aligned tender management processes.
  
  
  

Why Join Us?

At Yusen Logistics, we offer an exciting opportunity to thrive in a dynamic environment and make a lasting impact. As part of a talented team, you will shape the future of procurement operations across Europe while driving initiatives and advancing your career within a global organization. This role provides the autonomy, responsibility, and challenges needed to make a real difference.

Diversity Statement.

At Yusen we are committed to fostering a working environment that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) for all our employees and stakeholders. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. Benefiting from creative solution derived as a result of embracing differences. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment.

This Is How It Works

To apply, use the link.

We are intrigued by your application and will reach out to you for a phone call.

Successful call? Let's meet live or via video.

Meet potential team members in a friendly interview.

As part of our assessment process (if applicable), complete an assessment to gauge your skills and abilities.

Final stage: negotiate terms, sign, and welcome onboard!