Category Manager

AkilConnect; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Lactalis in Western Cape seeks a Category Manager to develop category strategies, lead strategic sourcing, and optimize procurement operations across Africa. You will negotiate supplier terms, manage end-to-end sourcing, and drive cost savings while ensuring compliance with policies and sustainability goals.

The role requires 5-7 years in procurement with FMCG exposure, strong analytics, and excellent communication. Travel locally to sites in SA and neighboring African countries may be needed.

Qualifications

• University degree in SCM / related field.
• 5-7 years procurement experience with category mgmt focus.
• FMCG experience preferred and sustainability knowledge advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Project management capability and cross-functional collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Develop category strategies and implementation plans.
• Negotiate contracts and supplier terms to achieve cost savings.
• Lead end-to-end sourcing for Africa and defined categories.
• Monitor costs and drive efficiency improvements.
• Assess supplier risks and implement mitigation plans.
• Ensure compliance with laws and company policies.
• Define KPIs, generate reports, and support decision-making.
• Collaborate with finance, operations, and legal teams.

Skills

Category management

Strategic sourcing

Procurement

Contract negotiation

FMCG experience

Data analysis

MS Excel

PowerPoint

ERP software

Communication skills

Project management

Travel

Education

University degree

Tools

Procurement software

ERP systems

MS Office

Data analytics tools

Job description

Job Description

Join Lactalis at our offices in Western Cape and take on the challenge of the Category Manager role. The purpose of this role is to develop and implement the category strategy for defined categories, manage the procurement operations of defined category responsibility, and ensure the efficient and effective sourcing of goods and services, This exciting career opportunity will enable your business acumen to support the company in achieving objectives during the next phase of its growth in South Africa.

Required Skills

• Educational Background: University or similar degree – ideally in Supply Chain Management, Business Science, Industrial Engineering or related
• Experience: 5-7 years of experience in procurement, with a focus on category management and strategic sourcing. Demonstrated success in negotiating contracts and achieving cost savings. FMCG experience is preferred Understanding of sustainability and environmental practices within the food industry would be advantageous
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail. Proven ability to analyze market data and make data-driven decisions.
• Communication and Negotiation Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proven ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders
• Project Management: Project management skills to handle multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with procurement software, ERP systems, and other relevant technologies. Advanced computer knowledge skills – MS Office (MS PowerPoint and MS Excel) is of advantage
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing market conditions and business requirements. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Ability to travel locally to the local sites and sites in neighboring African countries

Duties & Responsibilities

• Category Strategy Development: Develop and implement strategic procurement plans for assigned categories. Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and industry best practices to inform category strategies. Periodic budget preparation, analysis, and tracking
• Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers. Negotiate contracts, terms, and conditions with suppliers to achieve cost savings and ensure high-quality goods or services.
• Sourcing and Procurement: Conduct sourcing activities to identify potential suppliers and assess their capabilities. Manage the end-to-end sourcing process, from supplier selection to contract execution. Oversee and support function for African countries
• Cost Management: Monitor and control costs within assigned categories. Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement efficiency improvements.
• Risk Management: Assess and mitigate risks related to suppliers, market conditions, and geopolitical factors. Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Compliance and Regulations: Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies. Implement ethical and sustainable procurement practices.
• Performance Metrics and Reporting: Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure category performance. Vendor Management & Evaluation Generate reports and analysis to support decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborate with internal stakeholders, such as finance, operations, and legal teams, to align procurement strategies with overall business goals. (includes Africa)
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement best practices. Stay informed about industry trends and emerging technologies that could impact procurement processes