Buyer - Packaging Materials

Placements24; Greater London; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Buyer - Packaging Materials to join our client’s purchasing team in East London. You will source, negotiate, and manage packaging suppliers to ensure quality, delivery, and cost targets across primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging.

The role requires 2-4 years in packaging procurement, strong negotiation skills and ERP/Excel proficiency, and will involve collaboration with R&D and production teams to optimize packaging costs within a dynamic consumer goods

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in supply chain management, business administration, marketing, or related field.
• 2-4 years of purchasing or procurement experience with packaging materials.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Proficiency with Excel and ERP systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure a wide range of packaging materials (primary, secondary, tertiary).
• Develop and maintain relationships with packaging suppliers for quality, reliability and pricing.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing and delivery terms to achieve cost savings.
• Manage supplier selection, evaluate capabilities and due diligence.
• Monitor supplier performance against KPIs and address issues.
• Ensure timely delivery aligning with production schedules; coordinate with logistics/warehouse.
• Maintain records for PO's, supplier data, pricing and inventory.
• Collaborate with R&D and product teams to assess new packaging materials.
• Comply with company policies, quality standards and regulatory requirements.
• Forecast material needs and manage packaging inventory.

Education

Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field

Tools

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and growing consumer goods manufacturer, is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Buyer - Packaging Materials to join their purchasing department in East London, Eastern Cape . This role is integral to ensuring the consistent and cost-effective supply of all packaging materials required for product manufacturing. The Buyer will be responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing relationships with packaging suppliers, ensuring adherence to quality standards, delivery schedules, and budgetary constraints. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of packaging materials, excellent negotiation skills, and a commitment to operational efficiency. You will play a key part in optimizing packaging costs and contributing to the overall competitiveness of the company's products. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated buyer to make a significant impact within a thriving organization in the coastal city of East London . We are looking for an individual eager to contribute their expertise in a critical supply chain function.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and procure a wide range of packaging materials, including primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging components.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with packaging suppliers, ensuring quality, reliability, and competitive pricing.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and delivery terms with suppliers to achieve cost savings and optimize value.
• Manage the supplier selection process, including evaluating supplier capabilities and conducting due diligence.
• Monitor supplier performance against agreed-upon KPIs and address any issues proactively.
• Ensure timely delivery of packaging materials to meet production schedules, coordinating with logistics and warehouse teams.
• Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, supplier information, pricing, and inventory levels.
• Collaborate with R&D and product development teams to evaluate new packaging materials and solutions.
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in forecasting material needs and managing inventory levels for packaging supplies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
• 2-4 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, with a specialization in packaging materials.
• Good understanding of various packaging materials (e.g., plastics, paperboard, glass, flexibles) and their manufacturing processes.
• Proven negotiation skills and experience in managing supplier contracts.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and procurement software is a plus.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external suppliers.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive attitude and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a provident fund. This role provides an excellent opportunity to specialize in packaging procurement and advance your career within the consumer goods industry. Employees benefit from a supportive team environment and opportunities for professional development in East London, Eastern Cape . The company encourages innovation and offers a rewarding work experience. Additional benefits may include study assistance, employee discounts, and potential for performance bonuses.