Procurement Excellence & Operations Leader (Hybrid)

The Coles Group; Melbourne; Hybrid; AUD 230,000 - 320,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working options (hybrid)

Gym facility

Free parking

BBQ area

Mini-Coles supermarket

Discounts for team members

Job summary

The Coles Group is seeking a Head of Procurement - Excellence & Operations in Melbourne to lead strategic procurement transformation across the business. You will drive governance improvements, strengthen third-party risk management and work with senior stakeholders to deliver sustainable value for Coles and its customers.

You will lead a capable team, manage complex programs, and leverage SAP Ariba and data-driven approaches to improve efficiency and commercial outcomes.

Qualifications

• Proven senior leadership experience across procurement excellence, operations or a centre-of-excellence environment, with a track record of leading complex transformation programs and delivering measurable outcomes.
• Deep procurement and commercial expertise across strategic sourcing, category management, supplier and contract management, negotiation, financial analysis and benefits realisation.
• Strong knowledge of procurement governance, third-party risk management and compliance frameworks, with experience improving controls, managing risk and strengthening operational performance.
• Experience leading complex service delivery models and driving continuous improvement, supported by strong financial acumen and the ability to translate initiatives into measurable business value.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex transformation programs across Procurement and the wider business, delivering measurable and lasting improvements.
• Strengthen third-party risk assessment and reassessment processes, ensuring controls are proportionate, practical and effective.
• Set clear procurement standards, governance and ways of working that improve compliance, efficiency and commercial outcomes.
• Partner with senior stakeholders across Finance, Risk, Legal and Technology to influence decisions, manage change and deliver shared priorities.
• Drive improvements across procurement systems, including SAP Ariba, using data, automation and technology to simplify processes and realise benefits.
• Build, coach and lead a high-performing team, creating clear accountability, developing capability and supporting continuous improvement.

Skills

Senior leadership

Procurement excellence

Operations

Transformation programs

Third-party risk management

Stakeholder influence

Tools

SAP Ariba

Job description

The Coles Group is seeking a Head of Procurement - Excellence & Operations in Melbourne to lead strategic procurement transformation across the business. You will drive governance improvements, strengthen third-party risk management and work with senior stakeholders to deliver sustainable value for Coles and its customers.

You will lead a capable team, manage complex programs, and leverage SAP Ariba and data-driven approaches to improve efficiency and commercial outcomes.