Key performance areas include but not limited to the following:- To plan and purchase raw materials & logistics services for the business taking into consideration Cash Flow, sales forecast and customer demand, competitive pricing and high service level.- Develop relationships with key suppliers ensuring competitive pricing is achieved and service levels sustained by conducting regular supplier reviews and performance analysis - To work in conjunction with the commercial team to analyse the rolling three months sales forecast to support strategic purchasing, correct stock profile, optimum inventory levels and OTIF commitment to customers.- Utilise sales forecast data to prepare rolling forecasts to Key suppliers- To manage the business inventory levels ensuring it meets current business requirements - Production order are planned efficiently maximising resources available - High level of communication between production and sales support - Plan vs actual variances are reviewed to monitor plant performance and ensure standard cost of processing is aligned - To work alongside the Operations team to ensure the correct levels of direct manufacturing labour are in place to meet production budgets - To overview inventory checks (inbound and outbound) and ensure stock accuracy at all times- Investigating variances and providing discrepancy report for sign off - Manage and motivate a team of supply chain staff
Key Challenges in Achieving Goal(s): - Managing customer expectations – accurate planning based on sales input to make prompt decisions with regards to production and material planning, logistics and shipping schedule.- Managing suppliers – ensuring uninterrupted supply especially key materials and price increases- Risk mitigations – reduce reliance on single source supplier, maintaining inventory in a price-sensitive commodity-based cost environment. - Ensuring effective communication between production and sales support colleagues to ensure best possible production plan in fulfilling customer orders / recognising revenues.
Qualifications / Experience- Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or similar field (is preferred)- Previous experience as a supply chain manager or in a similar field – preferably in a manufacturing process environment- Excellent knowledge of supply chain processes- Experience working in and maintaining databases using Microsoft Excel and others relevant to the company processes- Strong understanding and ability to proactive plan ahead to manage logistics challenges and issues pertaining to freight forwarding, customs declaration and clearance, and export/ import related documentation- Collaborate with Sales, Operations and Customer Service Teams- Identifying process bottlenecks and implementing solutions in a timely manner
Other Skills- Critical thinker and problem-solving skills- Prioritisation and time management - Great interpersonal and communication skills- Excellent organisational and project management skills- English language, including in technical areas, is a requirement.