Remote Buyer - Packaging Materials

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 550,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Flexible remote work

Health insurance & retirement savings

Online learning & virtual events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a remote Buyer to manage packaging procurement for a major beverage producer. You will source bottles, caps, labels, cartons, and related materials, negotiate terms, and ensure supply continuity across South Africa with a focus on cost saving and sustainability.

This fully remote role supports East London operations and requires strong supplier management and analytical skills. You'll collaborate with R&D, marketing, and production teams to meet packaging needs while

Qualifications

• 4+ years in purchasing with packaging focus (FMCG/beverage preferred).
• Experience sourcing and managing packaging materials (glass, plastic, metal, labels, cartons).
• Strong negotiation and demonstrable cost reductions in packaging procurement.
• Understanding of packaging production processes and sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure all packaging materials (glass, plastic, metal, labels, cartons, films).
• Identify, evaluate and onboard new packaging suppliers, ensuring quality and sustainability.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery with suppliers for cost savings and continuity.
• Manage supplier relationships and conduct regular performance reviews.
• Collaborate with R&D, marketing and production to meet packaging requirements.
• Monitor market trends and raw material costs; assess supplier capabilities.
• Ensure compliance with packaging regulations and sustainability initiatives.
• Manage purchase orders, track deliveries, and resolve supply disruptions.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Communication

Remote work

Education

Bachelor's degree in SCM or related

Tools

ERP systems

Procurement software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading national beverage producer, is seeking a dedicated Remote Buyer to manage the procurement of all packaging materials. This fully remote role is critical for ensuring a consistent and cost-effective supply of high-quality packaging solutions, including bottles, caps, labels, and secondary packaging, essential for their production lines. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of the packaging supply market, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to manage relationships with a diverse range of suppliers. We are looking for a self-motivated and organized professional who can thrive in a remote work environment and contribute to optimizing our client's packaging procurement strategy. This is an excellent opportunity to join a prominent company and manage a key supply chain function from anywhere within South Africa , supporting operations based in East London .

Key Responsibilities

• Source and procure all types of packaging materials, including glass, plastic, metal containers, labels, cartons, and protective films.
• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new packaging suppliers, ensuring compliance with quality, sustainability, and ethical standards.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules with packaging suppliers to achieve optimal cost savings and ensure supply chain continuity.
• Manage and maintain strong relationships with existing packaging suppliers, conducting regular performance reviews.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including R&D, marketing, and production, to understand packaging requirements and identify innovative solutions.
• Monitor market trends, raw material costs, and supplier capabilities within the packaging industry.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant packaging regulations and sustainability initiatives.
• Manage purchase orders, track deliveries, and resolve any supply chain disruptions effectively.

Requirements

• A minimum of 4 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, with a strong focus on packaging materials, preferably within the FMCG or beverage industry.
• Proven experience in sourcing and managing a wide range of packaging types and materials.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills and success in achieving cost reductions in packaging procurement.
• Excellent understanding of packaging production processes, materials, and sustainability considerations.
• Proficiency in using procurement software and ERP systems.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field is preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, essential for remote work.
• Must be highly organized, self-disciplined, and capable of working independently in a fully remote capacity.
• Must be legally authorized to work remotely within South Africa .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and performance-based incentives.
• This fully remote position provides significant flexibility and work-life balance for individuals across South Africa .
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings contributions are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development through online learning platforms and virtual industry events are available.
• This role offers a chance to significantly impact the supply chain of a major national brand, remotely supporting operations originating in the Eastern Cape .