Group Procurement Manager (Fmcg)

The Legends Agency; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking an experienced Head of Group Procurement to lead their global procurement strategy across South Africa, the UK, and Europe. You will manage supplier contracts, oversee procurement functions, and lead a team of specialists. The ideal candidate has a minimum of 5 years in senior procurement, strong negotiation skills, and a relevant tertiary qualification. This role offers an opportunity to impact procurement operations significantly.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years experience in a senior procurement role, preferably in FMCG / manufacturing.
• Proven experience managing international procurement operations.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the purchasing of dry goods for production, ensuring best price and quality.
• Negotiate supplier contracts and oversee procurement functions in multiple regions.
• Implement and monitor cost-saving projects and provide regular reporting on KPIs.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Supplier management

Analytical skills

Communication

Advanced Excel skills

Education

Relevant Tertiary Qualification in Procurement / Supply Chain

CIPS certification

Financial background (CIMA / CA)

Tools

SAGE

ERP systems

MS Office

Job description

Overview

Our client is looking for an experienced Head of Group Procurement to lead and manage their global procurement strategy and operations across South Africa, the UK, and Europe.

Responsibilities

Procurement Strategy & Operations

• Lead the purchasing of dry goods for production, ensuring best price, lead time, and quality.
• Negotiate supplier contracts, rebates, and settlement discounts (local and international).
• Oversee procurement functions in South Africa, the UK, and Europe.
• Manage end-to-end procurement processes including tendering, supplier selection, and contract management.
• Collaborate with internal teams (Sales, Finance, Operations, NPD) to align purchasing with forecasts and business needs.

Supplier Management

• Build strong relationships with local and European suppliers.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and quarterly audits.
• Source and onboard new suppliers to support CAPEX, OPEX, and project needs.
• Ensure suppliers meet QMS, HACCP, and H&S standards.

Cost Control & Reporting

• Implement and monitor cost-saving projects and standardization initiatives.
• Control stock variances, drive down deadstock and reduce holding costs.
• Provide regular analysis and reporting on procurement KPIs, cost performance, and strategic savings.
• Sign off on overseas invoices and oversee accurate forecasting using tools like Qlik sense.

Leadership & People Management

• Lead and mentor a team of procurement specialists and officers.
• Conduct performance reviews, identify training needs, and foster a collaborative team culture.

Compliance & Systems

• Ensure effective use of procurement and financial systems (e.g., SAGE).
• Support audits, quality assurance, and procurement governance.
• Maintain accurate procurement documentation and reporting tools.

Requirements

Education & Qualifications

• Matric + Relevant Tertiary Qualification in Procurement / Supply Chain
• CIPS certification advantageous
• Financial background (CIMA / CA) highly beneficial

Experience & Skills

• Minimum 5 years experience in a senior procurement role, preferably in FMCG / manufacturing
• Proven experience managing international procurement operations
• Advanced Excel & MS Office skills; experience with SAGE and ERP systems
• Strong negotiation, supplier management, and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities