SHAILESH FIRAKE

Sr. Procurement Manager - Direct Materials, Category Team (IMEA, AP, GC) @ Ecolab

About

How do you think procurement can transform your business? For me, it’s not just about cost savings—it’s about unlocking strategic value, building resilient supply chains, and driving sustainable growth. With over 25 years of experience in multinational corporations, I specialize in strategic sourcing, supplier development, contract negotiations, and procurement optimization. I’ve successfully led procurement functions across India, the Middle East, and Africa, delivering efficiency and cost-effectiveness in complex supply networks. Currently, I am spearheading a global initiative at Ecolab to develop suppliers from the Eastern Hemisphere, strengthening global categories across North America, Europe, LATAM, and Asia Pacific. My expertise spans procurement strategy, supplier collaboration, and sustainable sourcing—enhancing operational resilience while fostering innovation. My blend of technical depth and strategic vision reflects a strong commitment to professional excellence and continuous learning. I am deeply curious about how procurement can evolve in the era of sustainability, digital transformation, and global interconnectivity—and I thrive on exploring new ways to create value beyond traditional boundaries. I help businesses become more competitive, enabling growth through sustainable supply chain cost optimization. Are you ambitious about driving sustainable growth and creating shareholder value? Let’s connect:  sfirake@rediffmail.com

Country

India

City

Mumbai

Industry

Chemicals

Skill

Risk Management, Export Documentation, International Shipping, International Trade, Import Logistics, Import/Export Operations, Strategic Supplier Development, Cost Savings, Supply Chain Optimization, Logistics Management, Responsible Supply Chain Management, Analytical Skills, Problem Solving, Supplier Negotiation, Strategic Sourcing, Procurement, Purchasing, Supplier Management, Global Sourcing, Negotiation

Experience

Sr. Procurement Manager - Direct Materials, Category Team (IMEA, AP, GC)

Ecolab

2023-12 - Present · 2 yrs 10 mos

India

• Leading global Low-Cost Market Sourcing (LCMS) initiative covering scope of $2B+ spend across direct material categories. • Delivered $50M savings in two years and built a $65M pipeline, strengthening supply resiliency through expanded East region supply base. • Collaborating with global and regional leadership to enhance supply resiliency and mitigate risk.

Procurement Leader - Direct Materials for India, Middle East & Africa

Ecolab

2020-11 - 2023-12 · 3 yrs 2 mos

India

• Led procurement for IMEA region with $180M spend, achieving 5%+ annual savings and enabling $90M+ new sales during global disruptions. • Managed a diverse reporting team of 12 across multiple countries in the region, driving localization and supplier development programs.

Procurement Manager – Direct, Indirect, & Equipment for India

Nalco Water, An Ecolab Company

2012-5 - 2020-11 · 8 yrs 7 mos

Pune

• Managed $50M (INR 400 Cr) spend across categories (direct, Indirect and Equipment); led cost optimization and compliance transformation. • Delivered $1.2M savings and improved cash flow by 15 days reduction in payables. • Localized raw materials, reduced imports, and strengthened supplier partnerships.

Purchase Head

Henkel

2004-12 - 2012-5 · 7 yrs 6 mos

Mumbai

• Led a team of 13, managing $120M Procurement spend across five business entities. • Reduced supplier base from 6800 to 2600, driving cost optimization and compliance in the indirect category. • Achieved 95% EOM vendor payment compliance, improving cash flow. • Implemented ERP automation and digitalized reporting process. • Developed low-cost sourcing strategies for Henkel’s global operations

Asst. Manager Purchase

Tytan Organics Pvt Ltd

2003 - 2004-12 · 2 yrs

Mumbai

• Led procurement of all categories of raw materials, packaging and equipment (Domestic and international) • Supported R&D with innovative material sourcing. • Led Capex procurement for UAE greenfield plant, including vendor development and equipment sourcing.