Inventory and Procurement Specialist

Location: Ottery

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: R 25 000.00 to R 30 000.00

My client is  currently seeking an experienced and highly organized Inventory and Procurement Specialist . This position plays a key role in managing the sourcing, inventory, and procurement of both raw materials and finished goods, ensuring operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

Stock Inventory & Forecasting Management: Oversee the tracking of stock levels, including raw materials and finished goods. Use sales data to forecast, plan, and manage inventory levels to ensure efficient operations.

Inventory Management: Maintain accurate inventory records, regularly monitor stock levels, and coordinate the replenishment process to ensure sufficient stock while minimizing excess inventory.

Purchasing & Procurement: Manage purchasing orders from suppliers, ensuring accurate receipts and verifying the completeness of purchase contents. Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers to negotiate favourable terms and prices.

Shipping & Receiving: Supervise the shipment and internal stock transfers process, ensuring that shipments are received on time and inventory is updated accordingly.

Reporting: Compile and provide regular reports on stock levels, purchasing activity, pricing, and costs to senior management.

Audits & Discrepancy Resolution: Perform regular stock audits, identify discrepancies, and resolve any inventory issues promptly.

Supplier & Vendor Management: Evaluate and analyse supplier processes, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery. Negotiate contracts and pricing terms to drive cost savings and quality.

Cost Analysis & Profitability Maximization: Conduct cost analyses and recommend improvements to pricing structures and cost-cutting measures. Identify opportunities for waste reduction and improved profitability.

Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance: Ensure adherence to food safety standards and statutory requirements. Verify that commodities meet company quality standards before purchase and use.

Forecasting & Communication: Develop and maintain forecasting tools for raw products and sales data, ensuring clear communication with key stakeholders about stock availability and forecasted needs.

Collaboration: Work closely with the planning department to ensure a smooth flow of raw materials, meet production deadlines, and minimize delays.

Skills & Qualifications:

Experience: 3+ years in inventory management, procurement, or supply chain management, preferably in a manufacturing or food industry environment.

Education: Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience).

Strong Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.

Analytical Abilities: Strong ability to analyse costs, pricing, and supplier performance.

Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively across various departments.

Negotiation Skills: Proven ability to negotiate favourable terms with suppliers and service providers.

Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with industry regulations, quality standards, and food safety compliance.

Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues, resolve discrepancies, and implement process improvements.