Supply Chain Manager / Director

Positioned at executive level in a prominent FMCG manufacturing organisation, this role carries complete end-to-end operational accountability from raw material sourcing through to final customer delivery. Operating alongside the Managing Director, this position offers a direct, structured career progression opportunity from Manager to Supply Chain Director within the first year. We actively encourage applications from skilled managers seeking to progress their careers, who thrive in a supportive, team-first environment. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups. Key Responsibilities Strategic Demand Planning & S&OP: Formulate and lead a cohesive monthly S&OP cadence across Sales, Marketing, NPD, Operations, and Finance to dismantle operational silos, uplift demand forecast accuracy, and consistently achieve customer service levels above 92%. Procurement & Supplier Governance: Lead strategic sourcing and procurement activities, negotiating robust supplier and contract packer agreements while cultivating sustainable international and local supply partnerships. Working Capital & Inventory Optimisation: Drive inventory management strategies to achieve an immediate 10% reduction in warehouse footprint, curbing excess and obsolete stock, minimising write-offs, and safeguarding product shelf-life and traceability. Logistics & Clearing Administration: Direct primary and secondary distribution networks, clearing and forwarding shipping agents, and bulk warehouse operations to maintain fluid inbound and outbound material flows. Proactive Supply Chain Risk Management: Design and deploy agile contingency frameworks—including secondary and tertiary supplier panels—to mitigate external disruptions, port delays, and operational bottlenecks. Cross-Functional Leadership & Operational Governance: Lead, mentor, and upskill the procurement and warehousing personnel, ensuring rigorous adherence to standard operating procedures, GRV systems, and product recall protocols. Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Commerce, or an equivalent qualification. 10 years of progressive, demonstrable experience across supply chain, procurement, demand planning, and inventory management, ideally gained within an FMCG or manufacturing environment. Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated cross-functional management experience leading procurement and warehousing teams. Proven track record in successfully designing, institutionalising, and running an integrated monthly S&OP process. Sound commercial acumen with verified achievements in working-capital reduction, supplier contract negotiations, and service-level optimisation. Strong background in mitigating severe supply chain interruptions, managing shipping agents, handling port contingencies, and overseeing product recall protocols. Employment Equity alignment in accordance with the Organisation’s Employment Equity transformation plan. Preferred Qualifications Relevant postgraduate qualification in Supply Chain Management, Operations, or Business Management (e.g., Honours, PDBA, or MBA). Professional certifications such as CIPS, CSCP, CPIM, or equivalent accredited professional credentials. Formal continuous improvement, contract management, or advanced demand-planning certifications. Required Software Skills Advanced Microsoft Excel (data modelling, forecasting, and analytical manipulation). Practical operational experience with enterprise ERP and MRP environments (e.g., SAP, Syspro, Navision, or similar). Demonstrated proficiency with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and dedicated Demand Planning tools. Benefits Benefits & Culture Executive and management committee participation with direct influence on strategic and commercial direction. Opportunity: Clear, accelerated governance-backed career trajectory targeted to transition to Director level within 12 months. High-accountability, collaborative manufacturing culture focused on operational excellence, quality compliance, and ongoing development. Work Type & Location On-site / Standard Operational Facility, Southern Suburbs, Cape Town, Western Cape