Remote Senior Buyer - FMCG Procurement

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work environment

Competitive salary package

Professional development opportunities

Exposure to international sourcing

Supportive virtual team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Senior Buyer to manage procurement for FMCG products from a distributed team while supporting Durban, KwaZulu-Natal operations. You will source materials, negotiate terms, and ensure timely, compliant delivery in a fast-paced environment.

The role emphasizes strategic supplier management, cost optimization, and cross-department collaboration to sustain product availability and quality for the business across markets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or related field.
• 6+ years of FMCG procurement experience with proven negotiation success.
• Strong understanding of FMCG supply chains, materials, and distribution.

Responsibilities

• Strategize, source, and procure FMCG products, raw materials, and packaging.
• Analyze markets to identify cost-saving opportunities and supplier trends.
• Negotiate contracts with domestic and international suppliers.
• Develop relationships with vendors and manage performance.
• Oversee procurement from requisition to delivery and ensure timely orders.
• Collaborate with Marketing, Operations, and QA to meet timelines.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and ethical sourcing.
• Identify supply risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Prepare reports on procurement activities and savings.

Skills

Procurement strategy

Negotiation

Supplier management

Analytical skills

ERP systems

Remote collaboration

English fluency

FMCG knowledge

Education

Bachelor's in Supply Chain Management

Bachelor's in Business Administration

Bachelor's in Marketing

Tools

ERP software

Procurement software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is looking for a seasoned Remote Senior Buyer to manage procurement operations, remotely supporting their business needs in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is crucial for sourcing raw materials, packaging, and finished goods, ensuring a consistent and cost-effective supply chain. You will leverage your expertise in FMCG procurement to build strong supplier networks, negotiate advantageous terms, and drive value for the organization. This position offers a fantastic opportunity for a remote professional to make a significant impact in a fast-paced industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategize, source, and procure a wide range of FMCG products, raw materials, and packaging components.
• Conduct thorough market analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and emerging supplier trends.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing agreements with domestic and international suppliers, ensuring quality and compliance.
• Develop and maintain strong, productive relationships with key vendors and partners.
• Manage the procurement process from requisition through to delivery, ensuring timely fulfillment of orders.
• Collaborate closely with internal departments, including Marketing, Operations, and Quality Assurance, to meet product development and production timelines.
• Monitor supplier performance and implement corrective actions when necessary.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, ethical sourcing standards, and company policies.
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks relevant to the FMCG sector.
• Prepare regular reports on procurement activities, cost savings, and supplier performance for management review.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in procurement or buying, with a specialization in the FMCG industry.
• Demonstrated success in negotiating favorable terms with FMCG suppliers.
• Strong understanding of the FMCG supply chain, including raw materials, manufacturing processes, and distribution channels.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities, essential for remote collaboration.
• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems.
• Must be highly organized, self-disciplined, and able to work effectively independently in a fully remote capacity.
• Familiarity with the South African FMCG market, particularly in relation to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , is beneficial.
• Fluent in English.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with performance-based incentives.
• Fully remote work environment with flexibility in hours.
• Opportunity to work with a leading FMCG company and influence product availability.
• Professional development opportunities and exposure to industry best practices.
• Contribute to the supply chain success of essential consumer products.
• A supportive virtual team environment.
• Potential for international sourcing and supplier engagement.