Job Description

Strategic Buyer (Hybrid )

Primary Objectives:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Strategic Buyer to join our team within the Food and Cosmetic Manufacturing sector. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in sourcing and managing key supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and driving cost-saving initiatives while ensuring the supply of high-quality raw materials, ingredients, and packaging. This position will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including production, R&D, and quality assurance, to support business goals and product innovation.

Role Responsibilities

Develop and execute long-term procurement strategies that align with business objectives, cost-saving goals, and sustainability initiatives. Negotiate contracts and agreements with suppliers, ensuring favorable terms, pricing, and compliance with industry regulations and standards. Collaborate with internal stakeholders (R&D, Quality, Manufacturing, and Finance teams) to anticipate future needs, align procurement strategy, and drive product innovation. Monitor and analyze market trends, supplier performance, and risks to identify opportunities for cost reduction, efficiency improvement, and supply chain optimization. Ensure timely and accurate delivery of materials, and manage any potential supply chain disruptions or bottlenecks. Drive sustainability and ethical sourcing initiatives, working with suppliers to ensure compliance with environmental and social responsibility standards. Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) for procurement processes, reporting on supplier performance and procurement savings. Stay up-to-date with industry trends, regulations, and best practices to continuously improve procurement strategies and processes. Mentor and guide junior buyers within the team, sharing expertise and knowledge to support their professional development.
The above list of duties is not exhaustive and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks as may reasonably be expected within the scope of the post.

Skills & Competencies:

Bachelors degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. A Masters degree or relevant certification (e.g., CIPS, CPSM) is a plus. 7+ years of experience in strategic sourcing and procurement within food or cosmetic manufacturing industries, with a strong understanding of industry-specific raw materials, ingredients, and packaging. Proven track record of negotiating and managing supplier contracts and building strong, long-lasting supplier relationships. Strong understanding of cost analysis, supplier performance metrics, and procurement best practices. Experience with ERP systems and procurement software (SAP, Oracle, etc.). Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Knowledge of industry regulations and compliance standards related to food and cosmetics. Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities effectively. Strong leadership skills and ability to work collaboratively across functions Experience in global sourcing and managing international suppliers. Knowledge of sustainability practices and regulations within food and cosmetic manufacturing. Familiarity with Lean methodologies for process improvement.

Relationships

The position reports directly into Head of Procurement with the probability of achieving a direct report post probation

Success Criteria:

The Candidate will be measured on the following areas:

Achieve cost reduction targets while maintaining quality and supply continuity. Drive value through negotiations and strategic sourcing to lower total cost of ownership. Develop and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key suppliers. Foster collaboration and communication with suppliers to improve performance, resolve issues, and ensure supply chain stability. Manage and monitor supplier performance through key metrics (e.g., delivery performance, quality, and responsiveness). Identify potential supply chain risks (e.g., geopolitical, financial, operational) and develop mitigation strategies. Ensure diversity in the supplier base to avoid dependency on a single supplier. Address and resolve any disruptions in the supply chain swiftly to minimize impact on production. Align purchasing strategy with the Malaberg's overall goals and objectives. Drive continuous improvement in sourcing strategies to adapt to changing market conditions. Implement data-driven decision-making for sourcing and procurement. Streamline procurement processes to reduce lead times and enhance operational efficiency. Implement or improve supplier performance management systems. Leverage automation and technology to optimize purchasing and reduce manual work. Maintain optimal inventory levels to prevent both overstock and stockouts, ensuring smooth manufacturing operations. Work closely with production and logistics teams to synchronize supply with production schedules. Ensure all purchasing practices comply with legal and ethical standards, including industry regulations and sustainability goals. Lead the drive for sustainability by sourcing from eco-conscious suppliers and promoting sustainable practices across the supply chain. Collaborate effectively with R&D, production, finance, and other departments to ensure alignment between purchasing decisions and business needs. Provide strategic insight to product development teams to help make informed decisions regarding material sourcing. Regularly track and report key performance indicators (KPIs), including cost savings, supplier performance, inventory levels, and delivery timelines. Provide actionable insights to senior leadership based on data analysis to support decision-making.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 30,000.00 per year

Reference ID: malaberg.ltd+candidate+jl34x95yv@mail.manatal.com