20 January 2026
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Story Lunga Luthuli
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Photo Supplied
New SCM Head Angelo Griffiths brings decades of strategic procurement experience to strengthen UFS operations.
The University of the Free State (UFS) has welcomed
Angelo Griffiths as the new Head of Supply Chain Management (SCM) in the Finance Department, marking a strategic appointment aimed at strengthening governance, improving efficiency, and positioning procurement as a key enabler of the university’s academic mission.
Griffiths joins the UFS with more than 20 years of experience in procurement and supply chain management across manufacturing, public institutions, and South Africa’s higher education sector. His career includes senior roles at institutions such as the University of Cape Town, University of the Western Cape, University of Limpopo, and, most recently, the University of Johannesburg.
“My career in supply chain management spans over two decades,” Griffiths said, noting that throughout his career he has focused on “transforming procurement units, driving compliance, and strengthening governance structures.” He describes his move to the UFS as a natural continuation of this journey, adding that the institution offers a platform for meaningful contribution. “I am motivated by the challenge of leading a supply chain function that directly enables teaching, research, and community impact.”
Griffiths has extensive experience overseeing complex SCM portfolios, multi-million-rand budgets, and large teams. He believes his background aligns well with the needs of the UFS. “I bring a proven record of enhancing governance structures, embedding strong internal controls, improving turnaround times, and driving efficiencies through technology,” he said.
Priorities for the first year
His early focus will be on understanding the UFS’s current SCM landscape, strengthening governance, and improving service delivery across the institution.
“In the first phase of my tenure, my focus will be on establishing a clear and comprehensive understanding of the current state of the supply chain function,” he said. This includes reviewing systems and processes, stabilising governance structures, improving turnaround times, and reinforcing supplier performance management. Capacity building within the SCM team is also a central priority.
Driving transparency and accountability
A key goal is to enhance procurement governance, ensuring alignment with legislation and strengthening trust in institutional processes.
“A robust governance environment is fundamental. Our aim is not just to comply, but to consistently demonstrate operational integrity and readiness.” This will be supported through improved control frameworks, structured reporting cycles, dashboards, and clearer communication on SCM decisions.
Digital modernisation will also be a key focus of the supply chain’s evolution at the UFS. “Digital transformation will be a cornerstone of our modernisation efforts,” Griffiths said.
Plans include enhanced use of the university’s ERP system, workflow digitisation, e-tendering and e-contracting, and real-time analytics to strengthen visibility, traceability, and speed.
A strategic partner to the academic project
Griffiths emphasises that SCM is committed to becoming a trusted enabler across faculties and support units.
“Our focus is on delivering timely, compliant, and high-quality procurement support that empowers faculties and departments,” he noted. “SCM is here to listen, to adapt, and to deliver solutions that advance the university’s strategic priorities.”
With digital innovation, and service excellence at the centre of his strategy, Griffiths said he aims to help build a supply chain function that drives impact, supports institutional success, and contributes to the university’s continued growth.