About the Role
Our client, a prominent manufacturing entity with a national footprint, is seeking an experienced Remote Sourcing Manager to lead the strategic procurement of essential raw materials. This position is fully remote, allowing the successful candidate to work from any location in South Africa. The Sourcing Manager will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and developing a robust and cost-effective supply base for critical raw materials used across various production lines. This role demands strong analytical skills, exceptional negotiation capabilities, and a deep understanding of supply chain dynamics to ensure continuity and quality.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies for key raw materials, focusing on cost reduction, quality improvement, and supply chain security.
- Identify, vet, and onboard new suppliers, conducting thorough due diligence and capability assessments.
- Lead complex negotiations with suppliers to secure optimal pricing, favourable payment terms, and long-term supply agreements.
- Manage and maintain strong relationships with existing strategic suppliers, fostering partnerships that drive value and innovation.
- Conduct comprehensive market analysis, including price benchmarking, trend forecasting, and risk assessment, for raw material markets.
- Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, including R&D, production, and quality control, to understand material requirements and specifications.
- Monitor global supply chain risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure supply continuity and resilience.
- Develop and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) for supplier performance and sourcing initiatives, reporting on progress and outcomes.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the sourcing function to enhance efficiency, reduce lead times, and optimize inventory levels.
- Ensure all sourcing activities comply with company policies, ethical standards, and relevant regulatory requirements.
Requirements
- A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
- A Master's degree or professional certification (e.g., CIPS) is highly desirable.
- A minimum of 6-8 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing and procurement, with a significant focus on raw materials within a manufacturing environment.
- Proven track record of successfully developing and executing sourcing strategies that deliver substantial cost savings.
- Expertise in negotiating complex contracts and managing global supplier relationships.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret market data, cost models, and financial reports.
- Exceptional negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
- Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced skills in Microsoft Excel for data analysis.
- Demonstrated ability to manage remote teams and work effectively in a virtual, collaborative setting.
- A proactive, results-oriented approach with a strong sense of urgency and ownership.
- Deep understanding of supply chain risk management and mitigation techniques.
Benefits
- This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from any location within South Africa.
- Our client provides a highly competitive salary package, complemented by an annual performance bonus.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with a robust retirement savings plan, are included.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development through advanced training, certifications, and industry conferences are readily available.
- You will join a dynamic and forward-thinking company culture that values innovation and collaboration, with clear pathways for career advancement within a leading manufacturing organization.