Procurement Specialist - Raw Materials (FMCG)

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Pension fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a meticulous Procurement Specialist for raw materials based in Bloemfontein, Free State. The role focuses on sourcing, negotiating, and managing supplier relationships to ensure timely delivery of high-quality materials for FMCG production.

The ideal candidate will have 3–5 years in procurement within FMCG, strong negotiation and analytical skills, and proficiency in procurement software and Excel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Commerce, or related field.
• 3–5 years procurement/sourcing experience, preferably raw materials in FMCG.
• Strong understanding of procurement principles, contracts, and supplier management.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in procurement software and MS Office (Excel).
• Strong communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure raw materials ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery.
• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers with due diligence and performance monitoring.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers for optimal outcomes.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers.
• Monitor market trends, commodity prices, and supplier capabilities for strategy.
• Ensure compliance with policies, ethics, and regulatory requirements in procurement activities.
• Manage inventory levels of raw materials with production and logistics teams.
• Prepare and present reports on procurement activities, cost savings, and supplier performance.
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvements in procurement.
• Support long-term supply agreements and strategic sourcing for Bloemfontein site.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Teamwork

Independence

Education

Bachelor’s degree in SCM / Business / Commerce

Tools

Excel

Procurement software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant entity within the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a meticulous and experienced Procurement Specialist focusing on raw materials. This position is based in Bloemfontein, Free State , and is crucial for ensuring the consistent supply of high-quality raw materials needed for production. The Procurement Specialist will be responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing supplier relationships to secure competitive pricing and favorable terms while maintaining stringent quality standards. This role is integral to the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of our client's manufacturing operations in the Free State region. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong understanding of procurement best practices and the unique demands of the FMCG supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and procure a wide range of raw materials, ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery.
• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers, conducting due diligence and performance monitoring.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to achieve optimal commercial outcomes.
• Develop and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers.
• Monitor market trends, commodity prices, and supplier capabilities to inform procurement strategies.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements in all procurement activities.
• Manage inventory levels of raw materials in coordination with production and logistics teams.
• Prepare and present regular reports on procurement activities, cost savings, and supplier performance.
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement within the procurement function.
• Support the development of long-term supply agreements and strategic sourcing initiatives for the Bloemfontein site.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Commerce, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in procurement or sourcing, preferably with a focus on raw materials within the FMCG industry.
• Strong understanding of procurement principles, contract negotiation, and supplier management.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in procurement software and MS Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of quality control standards and supply chain best practices.
• Familiarity with the South African market and supplier base is advantageous.
• Experience working in Bloemfontein is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and pension fund contributions. This role provides a fantastic opportunity for professional development and career advancement within a growing FMCG organization. You will join a dedicated team in Bloemfontein, Free State , and contribute to the efficiency and success of our manufacturing operations. Enjoy a stable work environment with opportunities to learn and grow.