xNorth™ deploys experienced executives and operational leaders to support organizations through critical periods of growth, transformation, performance improvement, and operational change.Role Overview xNorth is seeking an Interim Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) to support one of its major industrial clients in Central Africa. Reporting directly to the CFO, this executive will lead the stabilization and transformation of the procurement function, strengthen supplier relationships, optimize sourcing and supply chain performance, and ensure continuity of critical operations in a complex industrial environment.This assignment requires a highly visible and hands‑on leader capable of quickly assessing the current procurement organization, implementing structure and governance, and delivering immediate operational improvements while building long‑term capability.The successful candidate will combine strategic procurement expertise with strong operational execution and experience managing procurement in industrial or asset‑intensive environments.Key ResponsabitiesLead the transformation and professionalization of the procurement function.Assess and optimize procurement processes, controls, governance, and organizational structureImplement procurement policies, procedures, approval frameworks, and compliance standardsEstablish procurement KPIs, dashboards, reporting routines, and performance management systemsImprove visibility, accountability, and control across all procurement activitiesPartner with the CFO and senior leadership to align procurement strategy with business objectivesDevelop and execute strategic sourcing initiatives across key spend categoriesLead negotiations with strategic suppliers, contractors, and commercial partnersStrengthen supplier relationships and drive supplier performance managementEstablish long‑term sourcing partnerships and framework agreementsIdentify and deliver cost optimization, efficiency, and value‑creation opportunitiesManage supplier risk and ensure continuity of supply for critical operationsImprove procurement planning, forecasting, inventory management, and demand planning processesCollaborate with operations, maintenance, finance, and logistics teams to support business requirements.Lead, mentor, and develop procurement teams while fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.Qualifications15+ years of progressive procurement leadership experiencePrevious experience as CPO, Procurement Director, VP Procurement, Head of Procurement, or equivalent senior leadership roleExperience in Central Africa (Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, CAR, DRC, etc.) or in comparable remote and emerging‑market environmentsProven ability to operate effectively in complex, multicultural, and resource‑constrained settingsProven track record leading procurement transformation and organizational improvement initiativesStrong expertise in strategic sourcing, category management, supplier negotiations, and contract managementExperience within industrial, manufacturing, mining, energy, forestry, infrastructure, or other asset‑intensive sectorsDemonstrated success operating in complex, remote, or emerging‑market environmentsStrong commercial, financial, and stakeholder management skillsAbility to balance strategic thinking with hands‑on executionBilingual French and English.Why Join xNorthLead a high-impact executive transformation mandateReport directly to senior leadership and influence key business decisionsDrive measurable improvements in procurement performance and operational resilienceWork alongside experienced executives and industry leadersJoin a growing network of interim leaders supporting critical assignments worldwide.#J-18808-Ljbffr