Supply Chain Manager - FMCG

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Supply Chain Manager based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, to oversee the end‑to‑end supply chain for a leading FMCG business. You will drive procurement, inventory control, warehousing, logistics and distribution to ensure efficiency and timely delivery.

This strategic role requires strong leadership, excellent analytical skills and a proven track record in FMCG supply chains, with a focus on cost reduction, supplier management and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in supply chain management, preferably FMCG.
• Experience in managing complex logistics, warehousing and distribution networks.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement efficient supply chain strategies to support business objectives and operational excellence.
• Oversee all aspects of the supply chain, including procurement, inventory management, warehousing, transportation, and distribution.
• Optimize logistics operations to reduce costs, improve delivery times, and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure reliable sourcing of materials and finished goods.
• Implement and manage inventory control systems to minimize stockouts and reduce excess inventory.
• Develop and maintain KPIs to measure supply chain performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Lead and mentor the supply chain team, fostering efficiency and continuous improvement.
• Utilize technology and data analytics to forecast demand, manage capacity, and streamline operations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align supply chain activities with business needs.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Negotiation

Forecasting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, is seeking an experienced and strategic Supply Chain Manager to oversee and optimize their operations. This critical role, based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , will be responsible for managing the entire supply chain lifecycle, from procurement and inventory management to logistics and distribution, ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery of products. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of FMCG supply chain dynamics, a proven ability to implement robust operational strategies, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This role offers a significant opportunity to shape and enhance supply chain processes within a thriving organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement efficient supply chain strategies to support business objectives and operational excellence.
• Oversee all aspects of the supply chain, including procurement, inventory management, warehousing, transportation, and distribution.
• Optimize logistics operations to reduce costs, improve delivery times, and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure the reliable sourcing of raw materials and finished goods.
• Implement and manage inventory control systems to minimize stockouts and reduce excess inventory.
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure supply chain performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Lead and mentor the supply chain team, fostering a culture of efficiency and continuous improvement.
• Utilize technology and data analytics to forecast demand, manage capacity, and streamline operations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sales, production, and finance, to align supply chain activities with business needs.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in supply chain management, preferably within the FMCG sector.
• Proven experience in managing complex logistics, warehousing, and distribution networks.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience in managing supplier contracts and relationships.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and ERP systems.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and experience managing a team.
• In-depth knowledge of FMCG market dynamics and supply chain challenges.
• Familiarity with the geographical area of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal is advantageous for logistical understanding.
• Strong understanding of regulatory compliance and quality control processes.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives.

• Comprehensive medical aid
• Retirement fund
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in supply chain management

Employees will enjoy a challenging yet rewarding role within a stable and growing organization, contributing to the efficient flow of essential consumer goods.