Supply Chain Manager

An established FMCG manufacturing organisation is seeking a strategic and commercially focused Supply Chain Manager / Director to oversee end-to-end product operations from raw material sourcing to final customer delivery. Operating as a key executive team member in Cape Town, South Africa, the successful candidate will drive demand planning, procurement, warehousing, and inventory control to balance operational risk, working capital, and product availability. This full-time position requires strong leadership, advanced data-analysis skills, and structured execution to coordinate cross-functional operations through a robust Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) model. Standard full-time business operating hours apply. Key Responsibilities: Lead the monthly S&OP process across commercial, marketing, operations, and NPD teams to establish unified forecasting and eliminate departmental silos. Optimise demand planning and market trend analysis to achieve sustained customer service levels exceeding 92%. Direct end-to-end supplier management, including international supply partner selection, contract negotiation, and co-packer relations. Oversee inventory management, warehouse storage, shipping routes, and freight clearing agents while safeguarding product shelf life, traceability, and quality. Drive inventory efficiency by decreasing warehouse space requirements by 10%, reducing write-offs, and eliminating excess stock. Develop risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans - such as sourcing secondary and tertiary suppliers - to maintain operational continuity during supply chain interruptions. Guide and mentor direct reports across procurement and warehousing teams, ensuring proficient operational use of the internal GRV system. Requirements 8 to 10 years of progressive leadership experience spanning supply chain, procurement, demand planning, warehousing, and logistics within an FMCG or manufacturing environment. Minimum of 3 years leading cross-functional teams at a senior management tier. Demonstrated expertise in implementing and running an effective S&OP framework that enhances forecast accuracy. Proven track record in international supplier negotiation, contract management, working-capital optimisation, and product recall protocols. Practical familiarity with ERP, MRP, demand-planning, and warehouse-management platforms. Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Procurement, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Commerce, or a related field. Preferred Qualifications: Postgraduate qualification in supply chain management, business management, or operational leadership. Professional credentials such as CIPS, CSCP, CPIM, or equivalent industry accreditations. Formal training in S&OP methodology, inventory control, or continuous improvement frameworks. Required Software Skills: Advanced Microsoft Excel (data analysis and modeling) ERP MRP Benefits Opportunity to step into executive leadership, progressing from Manager to Director level within 12 months. Strategic influence over core supply chain and commercial functions in a prominent manufacturing enterprise. Comprehensive executive compensation package.