This role reports to the Head of Procurement.
Direct Reports: 1 – Procurement Assistant – Raw Materials and Packaging
Job Summary:
The Procurement Manager for Raw Materials and Packaging will be responsible for managing the procurement of all raw materials and packaging supplies required for the production of various different beverage products. This role involves strategic sourcing, supplier management, contract negotiations, and cost management to ensure high-quality materials are sourced efficiently and sustainably. The Procurement Manager will work closely with internal teams including production, quality control, research and development, marketing, logistics, and finance to meet production schedules while ensuring cost-efficiency and quality standards are maintained.
Raws and Packaging materials procured include but are not limited to: Sugar, PET, Cans, Flavours and Ingredients, Shrink Wrap, Pallet Wrap and Corrugates.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Procurement
Lead the procurement of raw materials (e.g., sugar, flavours, dry commodities and other ingredients) and packaging materials (e.g. PET, preforms, cans, labels, closures) for beverage production.
Develop and execute sourcing strategies to identify high-quality, cost-effective suppliers and secure competitive pricing for raw materials and packaging.
Continuously monitor market trends, material costs, and supply chain dynamics to make informed decisions and negotiate the best terms for the company.
Supplier Management
Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers of raw materials and packaging.
Evaluate and qualify new suppliers based on quality, price, reliability, and sustainability.
Manage supplier performance and resolve any issues related to quality, delivery timelines, or cost discrepancies.
Collaborate with suppliers on product innovation, improvements, and sustainability initiatives.
Cost Control & Budget Management
Lead the procurement budget for raw materials and packaging.
Work with the finance team to forecast material costs, track spending, and ensure adherence to budgetary guidelines.
Identify opportunities for cost savings through negotiations, alternative sourcing, or process improvements.
Inventory and Demand Planning
Work closely with the production and supply chain teams to forecast material requirements and ensure timely procurement of materials to meet production and sales demands.
Work with the plant teams to manage inventory levels to prevent stockouts or excess inventory while optimizing working capital.
Collaborate with plant teams to ensure smooth delivery and storage of materials.
Contract Negotiations:
Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements with suppliers, ensuring favourable terms regarding cost, delivery, quality, and payment conditions.
Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements in all supplier agreements and contracts.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
Ensure that all raw materials and packaging materials meet the required quality standards, certifications, and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate with the quality control team to address any quality concerns with suppliers and ensure that materials are fit for use in beverage production.
Sustainability Initiatives
Drive sustainability efforts within the procurement process, sourcing eco-friendly packaging and materials.
Work with suppliers and the internal team to promote environmentally responsible sourcing practices and reduce the company’s carbon footprint.
Team Leadership & Development
Act as a leader and mentor to the team providing guidance, training, and development opportunities.
Foster a collaborative and efficient working environment, ensuring alignment with company goals and procurement objectives.
Continuously evaluate team performance and implement improvements to procurement processes.
Key Focus Initiatives/Deliverables:
Cost
Target % reduction in group R/Case and Previous Year Actual Spend by Material Area
Market benchmarking analysis – local and global
Target cost modelling – open book
Reformulation and ingredient harmonization
Packaging innovation
Cash
Drive Just in Time and consignment stock best practices to reduce working capital and improve cash flow.
Target payment term extension on high spend suppliers - > 60 days
Compliance
Drive SLA contract execution and visibility on critical spend items/services
Monitor supplier performance through scorecard system
Drive service and quality adherence
Lead the introduction of a supplier partnering programme
Collaboration
Identify, empower and support SME suppliers to build dedicated capacity and grow capability in line with TBC growth strategy
Embed BBBEEE preferential procurement buying mentality in all functions
Partner with suppliers to develop and explore new technologies
Collaborate and drive sustainability in partnership with industry bodies – PETCO, Polyco, METPAC etc.
Key Performance Indicators:
Year on Year Actual Spend R/Case Reduction
Reduction of Supplier NCRs
Creditors Days Improvement
Working Capital Reduction
Plastics Material Usage
Supplier Reduction/Consolidation
No. of Signed Service Level Agreements
No. of Signed Enterprise and Supplier Development Agreements
Execution of the Supplier Partnering Programme
Qualifications, Experience and Skills:
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Commerce, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., CPSM, CIPS) is a plus
At least 5-7 years of experience in procurement, with at least 3 years in a managerial or senior role, preferably within the beverage or food industry.
Proven experience in managing raw material and packaging procurement, including vendor management, contract negotiations, and cost control.
Strong understanding of supply chain management, including logistics, inventory, and demand planning.
Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
In-depth knowledge of procurement strategies, market analysis, and cost control.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and ERP systems (e.g. SAP S/4HANA).
Strong financial and commercial acumen.
Time management skills
Valid driver’s license.
Personal Attributes:
Solid knowledge of procurement principles, regulations, and best practices.
Strong sense of urgency and dynamic problem solver under changing and high-pressure conditions.
Strong presentation and written/verbal communication skills.
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to multitask effectively.
Able to manage complexity in a dynamic work environment with ability to analyse data and convert to information to aid in decision making or project prioritization.
Familiarity with inventory management systems and practices.
Good interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team orientated environment.
Independent, motivated self- starter and goal orientated.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment
