Purchasing Manager – Raw Materials
Purchasing Manager – Raw Materials
Location: Amanzimtoti, Durban
Reporting to: Senior Procurement Manager
About the Business
A well-established and growing FMCG manufacturing business in the personal care space, with a strong national retail presence and backing from an international group.
Fast-paced, commercially driven, and competing with major global brands.
The Role
This is a key procurement leadership role focused on raw materials and fragrances across a growing product portfolio.
You’ll take ownership of sourcing strategy, supplier performance, cost optimisation, and supply continuity — working closely with R&D, Planning, Quality, Manufacturing, and Finance.
It’s hands-on, commercially focused, and critical to keeping production running and innovation moving.
What You’ll Be Doing
Strategic Sourcing & Cost Management
Drive sourcing strategies aligned to cost, quality, and supply risk
Lead negotiations and secure long-term supplier agreements
Continuously identify cost-saving opportunities
Supplier Management
Build strong relationships with local and international suppliers (fragrance houses, chemical suppliers, distributors)
Monitor supplier performance across quality, service, and delivery
Resolve issues quickly to avoid disruption
Operational Procurement
Own the full purchasing cycle — from requisition to delivery and invoice resolution
Manage stock levels to balance availability and working capital
Track pricing, trends, and inventory health
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with R&D on new product development and sourcing
Work closely with Quality on compliance, audits, and documentation
Align with Planning to ensure production timelines are met
What We’re Looking For
Qualifications
Degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, Commerce or similar
Experience
5+ years in a procurement leadership role
FMCG / personal care / chemicals experience is key
Strong exposure to raw materials and/or fragrance sourcing
Proven track record in negotiation and supplier management
ERP experience (Syspro advantageous)
Advanced Excel
Key Strengths
Commercially sharp and cost-focused
Strong stakeholder engagement
Structured, analytical thinker
Comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment
Hands-on problem solver
What Success Looks Like
Consistent cost savings and supplier optimisation
Strong supplier performance and on-time delivery
Healthy inventory (no shortages, minimal excess)
Efficient, accurate procurement processes
Seamless support to production and NPD timelines
Why This Role
High-growth FMCG environment
Real impact on cost, supply, and product delivery
Fast-moving business where you can make decisions and see results
A team that values accountability, pace, and performance