C&P Lead

Job Title: C&P Lead (Indirect Spend & Operations)

Reports to: Contracts and Procurement Manager

Location: Warri, Nigeria

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Contracts and Procurement Lead (Indirect Spend & Operations) to join our team. The Contracts & Purchasing Lead (Indirect Spend & Operations) provides strategic leadership and accountability on the contracting and procurement activities related to indirect spend and operations maintenance categories, with oversight of  the end-to-end sourcing lifecycle including planning, tendering, negotiation, contract execution, and post-award contract management. The C&P Lead (Indirect Spend & Operations) is expected to ensure compliance with company policies, statutory regulations, and JV governance standards while driving cost optimization and value delivery.

The incumbent will coordinate cross-functional procurement activities, develop contracting strategies, and oversee supplier relationship management to ensure timely and high-quality service delivery. Additionally, the C&P Lead (Indirect Spend & Operations) will play a critical role in talent development and organizational performance within the C&P function through direct team supervision, people management and mentorship.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning and Contract Management:

• Lead team and enforce best practice and standard service delivery of contracting strategies and activities in compliance with HEOSL policies and statutory requirements.
• Advise C&P manager and leadership on supply chain risks, opportunities, and the commercial impact of operational decisions.
• Manage full contracting lifecycle including RFI/P/Q, bid evaluation, contract drafting, negotiation, execution, and administration.
• Accountable for the review and risk assessment of contracts and procurement agreements, and other C&P documents.
• Lead Team to negotiate contract terms, conditions, and prices with suppliers, vendors, and contractors.

2. Contract Administration:

• Drive commercial contracting excellence in cost optimization, engagement of qualified vendors and timely contract execution in the tendering processes to meet operational needs.
• Oversee post-award contract management to ensure compliance with service levels, resolve claims/disputes, and manage change orders.
• Manage contract lifecycle, including contract initiation, execution, and termination.
• Ensure maintenance of accurate and up-to-date contract records and databases
• Ensure contract compliance and adherence to contractual obligations.

 3. Stakeholder Management:

• Collaborate with Contract Holders and end-users to develop fit-for-purpose contracting plans that meet business timelines and performance targets
• Lead performance reviews with strategic suppliers, address performance gaps, and foster collaborative partnerships to deliver continuous improvement.
• Manage vendors to ensure work execution in line with contract, mitigate performance risk and sustain relationship.
• Lead to ensure collaboration with internal and external stakeholders within the C&P team and the larger organization, and the JV Partners.
• Provide contract guidance, support, and training to stakeholders.
• Ensure competency enhancement of Contract Holders and C&P direct reports.
• Mentor and support C&P Officers and end-user departments to build contracting competence and ensure adherence to standard contracting practices.

4. Contract Dispute Resolution:

• Ensure contracts are legally valid, with clearly defined terms, obligations, and rights for all parties to avoid ambiguity in resolution of any potential conflict.
• Support the management of contract disputes and claims.
• Support the negotiation of dispute resolutions and settlements.

5. Contract Reporting and Analytics:

• Support to develop and maintain contract reports and analytics.
• Provide insights and recommendations to improve contract management processes.
• Review contract data to ensure accuracy, complete, and up to date.

6. Contract Compliance and Governance:

• Ensure best practice and standard service delivery in compliance with HEOSL policies and statutory requirements.
• Support audit exercises, reporting, and performance reviews by maintaining accurate procurement documentation and contract records.
• Identify and implement opportunities for cost savings through market intelligence, spend analysis, and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) assessments.

7. Digitalization & Process Optimization:

• Support the C&P Manager in driving the implementation of e-procurement tools, contract lifecycle management systems, and automation initiatives.
• Ensure digitization of contract records, workflows, approvals, and performance metrics for transparency and efficiency.
• Identify opportunities to streamline key processes and reduce cycle time.

Requirements:

1. A Bachelor or HND degree in any Art, Management, Social Science discipline.
2. Certified Supply Chain Management designated professional – MCIPS, SCMP etc.
3. Proven experience in managing contracts, agreements, and other contractual documents.
4. Strong knowledge of contract law in Nigeria and applicable territories, contract management principles, and practices.
5. Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
6. Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and provide insights.
7. Proficient in contract management software, such as contract lifecycle management (CLM) systems.

Preferred Requirements:

1. A Master's degree in Supply Chain Management or a minimum of 12 years' experience in core contracting function with 5 of those years in a lead support role.
2. Possession of other postgraduate degrees in Law or Management.
3. Professional certification in contract management, such as CCM or CCCM.
4. Deep industry knowledge - understanding of PIA, NCDMB guidelines, NUPRC regulations, and local & international market dynamics.
5. Experience in oil and gas industry or related sector.
6. Experience in a similar role in an exploration and production company
7. Strong knowledge of procurement principles, practices, and regulations.
8. Experience with contract analytics and reporting tools.

What We Offer:

1. Competitive salary and benefits package.
2. Opportunity to work with a dynamic and experienced team.
3. Professional development and training opportunities.
4. Collaborative and supportive work environment.

If you're a motivated and experienced contract management professional looking for a new challenge, please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter.