Role Summary / Purpose
The Supply Chain Executive will manage end-to-end procurement and logistics operations for Malaysia and Singapore, covering supplier sourcing, vendor management, contract negotiation, cost control, customs compliance, and regional logistics coordination. The role ensures timely, cost-effective, and compliant delivery of materials and services to support project execution and operational expansion across Southeast Asia.
Key Responsibilities
Procurement & Sourcing
- Manage complete procurement cycle including market research, RFQ preparation, vendor evaluation, bid analysis, and supplier negotiations
- Build and maintain a tiered supplier database across Malaysia, Singapore, and Southeast Asia
- Identify qualified vendors for equipment, materials, and services; conduct vendor assessments and onboarding
- Coordinate with engineering and project teams to identify procurement requirements and lead times
- Support pre-tender phase with accurate cost estimation and supplier feasibility analysis
Vendor & Contract Management
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with local and regional suppliers, ensuring competitive pricing and reliable delivery
- Negotiate contracts covering pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, and quality standards
- Monitor vendor performance and manage underperforming suppliers
- Prepare and review procurement contracts with legal and finance teams for compliance
Cost & Budget Management
- Monitor procurement budgets and track spending against project estimates
- Conduct cost-benefit analysis and negotiate for cost optimization without compromising quality
- Prepare cost reports and variances for project managers and finance
- Identify cost-saving opportunities through supplier consolidation and volume leverage
Customs, Trade Compliance & Documentation
- Stay current with Malaysian and Singapore customs clearance policies, tariff regulations, and trade rules
- Manage import/export documentation including bills of lading, commercial invoices, and packing lists
- Apply for preferential tariff benefits under relevant trade agreements (ASEAN, CPTPP, bilateral agreements)
- Coordinate with customs brokers and ensure timely clearance of goods
- Maintain compliance with local regulations and company governance standards
- Ensure accurate record-keeping for audit and compliance reporting
Regional Logistics & Shipping Coordination
- Arrange logistics for air freight, sea freight, and courier services within Southeast Asia
- Coordinate shipping routes between Malaysia, Singapore, and other regional destinations
- Support cross-border transportation and manage customs documentation for movement of goods
- Monitor shipment status and expedite delivery as required by projects
- Negotiate freight rates with logistics providers
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Liaise with project teams (particularly on-site personnel in Malaysia and Singapore) to understand procurement and logistics needs
- Support project managers with vendor follow-ups and expedite critical deliverables
- Collaborate with finance on payment processing and vendor invoicing
- Coordinate with operations and warehouse teams on inventory and delivery schedules
- Participate in project tenders and tender submissions requiring procurement input
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, Logistics), Supply Chain Management, or related field
- 3-5+ years of procurement and logistics experience in engineering, industrial projects, or manufacturing
- Proven experience in Malaysian and/or Singapore business environment strongly preferred
- Working knowledge of customs, trade compliance, and import/export regulations in Southeast Asia
- Fluent in Mandarin Chinese, English (working language), Bahasa Malaysia, or other regional languages highly valued
Core Competencies
- Procurement & Sourcing – Proficient in RFQ processes, vendor evaluation, bid analysis, and negotiations
- Vendor Management – Ability to identify, assess, and maintain supplier relationships
- Customs & Trade Compliance – Understanding of tariff codes (HS classification), trade agreements, preferential tariff applications, and customs documentation
- Logistics & Supply Chain – Familiarity with air/sea freight, courier services, and cross-border transportation in Southeast Asia
- Contract & Cost Management – Experience with contract negotiation, cost analysis, and budget monitoring
- Documentation & Compliance – Strong attention to detail; experience maintaining accurate procurement and customs records
- Regional Knowledge – Familiarity with Malaysia, Singapore, and broader Southeast Asia business practices