Head of Group Procurement

The Legends Agency; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking an experienced Head of Group Procurement to oversee global procurement strategy across South Africa, the UK, and Europe. The role involves managing supplier relationships, driving cost efficiencies, and ensuring the procurement of high-quality dry goods. Candidates should have a strong procurement background, experience in FMCG/manufacturing, and relevant qualifications to excel in this strategic position.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in a senior procurement role, preferably in FMCG/manufacturing.
• Proven experience managing international procurement operations.
• Ability to build relationships with local and European suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Lead purchasing of dry goods, ensuring best price and quality.
• Negotiate supplier contracts and oversee procurement functions across regions.
• Implement cost-saving projects and report on procurement KPIs.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier Management

Analytical Skills

Communication

Interpersonal Abilities

Education

Relevant Tertiary Qualification in Procurement/Supply Chain

CIPS certification

Financial background (CIMA/CA)

Tools

SAGE

ERP systems

MS Office

Advanced Excel

Job description

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.

You'll be responsible for ensuring the procurement of dry goods and materials at the best value, maintaining supplier relationships, driving cost-saving initiatives, and aligning procurement efforts with our business objectives.

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

Key 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 headstock, 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.