Supply Chain Manager
FMCG / Food & Bev /Agri ~ Pharmaceuticals ~ Manufacturing
Northern Suburbs, Cape Town – Western Cape – South Africa
The successful incumbent will be responsible for overseeing all supply chain aspects. The role requires an analytical mind with strong leadership and problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate will report to our Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Key Performance Areas
- Identify, evaluate and recommend qualified suppliers of raw materials, packaging and other critical components.
- Negotiate contracts with suppliers, ensuring competitive pricing, timely delivery and compliance with quality standards.
- Build and manage supplier relationships including performance monitoring, issue resolution and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Manage inventory levels across all stages of the supply chain to minimize stockouts and excess inventory.
- Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to procurement, warehousing and planning.
- Continuously analyze and identify areas for improvement within the supply chain.
- Implement process improvements, such as lean manufacturing principles to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
- Conduct regular supply chain audits to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate with production and various cross functional teams to ensure smooth and efficient production planning.
- Maintain robust inventory management systems (e.g. ERP, WMS) to optimize stock levels and minimize stockouts.
- Identify and assess potential supply chain risks, such as natural disasters, political instability, and economic fluctuations.
- Develop and implement contingency plans to mitigate the impact of potential disruptions.
- Develop, implement and remain up to date with sustainable regulations and practices across all aspects of the business.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and ethical standards.
- Lead and coach procurement, warehousing and planning professionals.
- Foster a collaborative and results-oriented work environment.
- Recruit, train, and develop talent within the supply chain department.
- Stay up to date on industry relevant regulations in supply chain management.
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree or diploma in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration or a related field.
- Proven forecasting experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of all aspects of supply chain.
- 10 years experience in Supply Chain management, of which 5 years of experience must be at a hands-on managerial level with preference in Cosmetics/Pharma/Food/FMCG industries with GMP experience.
- Strong analytical and problem solving skills with the ability to indentify and implement process improvements.
- Excellent communication, leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Proficient in MS Office package and Supply Chain management software (eg ERP systems).
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
