Procurement Manager - CAPEX Projects

Position Summary
We are developing a state-of-the-art ironmaking facility in the United States and is seeking an experienced Procurement Manager – CAPEX Projects to lead procurement activities during the project execution phase.

This position will be responsible for developing and executing sourcing and contracting strategies for major capital equipment, construction services, engineering contracts, and project materials required for the successful delivery of the ISP Project. The role requires strong commercial acumen, project procurement expertise, and the ability to manage complex stakeholder and supplier relationships in a fast-paced industrial project environment.

The successful candidate will be based in Paducah, Kentucky and work closely with Project Management, Engineering, Construction, Finance, Legal, and Operations teams. Job Responsibilities
Project Procurement Leadership

• Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with project objectives, budget, schedule, and risk management plans.
• Lead procurement planning for all project packages, including long-lead equipment, engineered systems, construction contracts, and site services.
• Ensure procurement activities support project milestones and commissioning requirements.

Strategic Sourcing & Contract Management

• Manage the complete procurement lifecycle from sourcing strategy through contract award and supplier performance management.
• Prepare and administer RFQs, RFPs, bid evaluations, commercial negotiations, and contract execution.
• Negotiate commercial terms, pricing structures, warranties, liquidated damages, and service agreements.
• Collaborate with Legal and Project teams to develop and administer contracts.

CAPEX Equipment & Construction Procurement

• Lead procurement of major project packages including:
  • Process plant equipment
  • Mechanical systems
  • Electrical and instrumentation systems
  • Structural steel and fabrication packages
  • Construction and installation contracts
  • Utilities and infrastructure systems
• Coordinate closely with engineering teams to ensure technical specifications are properly incorporated into procurement packages.

Supplier & Stakeholder Management

• Identify, qualify, and develop strategic suppliers and contractors.
• Conduct supplier evaluations, commercial assessments, and performance reviews.
• Build strong relationships with domestic and international vendors.
• Interface regularly with project stakeholders to align procurement priorities with project execution plans.

Cost Control & Risk Management

• Drive value creation through competitive sourcing, commercial negotiations, and supplier optimization initiatives.
• Monitor procurement commitments against approved project budgets.
• Identify procurement risks and implement mitigation plans.
• Support claims management, dispute resolution, and contract administration activities.

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with company procurement policies, ethical sourcing standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Maintain accurate procurement records, reports, and contract documentation.
• Support internal and external audits as required.

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Construction Management, or related discipline.
• MBA, CPSM, CIPS, PMP, or equivalent professional certification preferred.
• 10+ years of procurement and contract management experience.
• Minimum 5 years supporting large-scale industrial CAPEX projects.
• Experience in steel, mining, metals, energy, manufacturing, EPC, or heavy industrial sectors preferred.
• Proven track record in managing high-value equipment procurement and construction contracts.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of project procurement methodologies and contract management.
• Experience with EPC, EPCM, and construction contracting models.
• Knowledge of procurement systems and ERP platforms (SAP preferred).
• Strong analytical, commercial, and negotiation capabilities.

Leadership Competencies

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong commercial judgment and decision-making ability.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under demanding project schedules.
• Results-oriented with a focus on safety, quality, cost, and schedule performance.

Key Success Measures

• Timely award of critical procurement packages.
• On-time delivery of long-lead equipment and materials.
• Achievement of procurement savings and value optimization targets.
• Supplier performance and contract compliance.
• Effective mitigation of procurement and supply chain risks.
• Contribution to overall project schedule and budget objectives.

Mesabi Metallics Company LLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our success.