Procurement Manager

Role Overview

The Procurement Manager will be responsible for sourcing raw materials, packaging materials, and indirect supplies required for production and business operations. The role will drive vendor development, cost optimization, quality assurance, and timely availability of materials in line with production plans. This position requires strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills, and experience in FMCG procurement processes.

Key Responsibilities

1. Procurement Strategy & Planning

• Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with business goals.
• Forecast material requirements based on production and sales plans.
• Ensure uninterrupted supply of materials with optimal cost, quality, and lead time.

2. Vendor Management & Development

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers for raw materials and packaging.
• Lead vendor negotiations on pricing, payment terms, contracts, and quality standards.
• Conduct periodic vendor audits and performance evaluations.

3. Cost & Commercial Management

• Drive cost reduction initiatives through strategic sourcing, consolidation, and negotiations.
• Track material price trends (commodities, packaging, etc.) and update business teams.
• Ensure procurement spend is within approved budgets.

4. Material Quality Assurance

• Ensure all procured materials meet defined quality specifications.
• Coordinate with QA/QC teams for sample approval and quality checks.
• Resolve material rejection, claim settlement, or quality deviation issues.

5. Operational Procurement & Compliance

• Ensure timely issuance of POs and adherence to procurement processes/SOPs.
• Maintain accurate procurement data, reports, and compliance documentation.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, statutory norms, and audit requirements.

6. Cross-functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Production, Planning, QA, Finance, and Warehousing teams.
• Participate in S&OP meetings to align procurement with demand and supply planning.
• Support NPD (New Product Development) with sourcing for new formulations and packaging.

7. Inventory & Lead Time Optimization

• Monitor material stock levels and ensure adequate safety stock.
• Reduce procurement lead times through supplier coordination and planning.
• Avoid stock-outs or excessive inventory holding.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong negotiation and commercial skills
• Deep understanding of FMCG procurement (raw materials, packaging materials, 3PM)
• Supplier assessment & contract management
• Cost analysis, budgeting, and market intelligence
• Cross-functional collaboration
• ERP proficiency (SAP, Oracle, etc.)
• Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making
• Strong documentation & compliance orientation

Education & Experience

• MBA/PGDM in Supply Chain, Operations, or Materials Management
• 612 years of experience in procurement (FMCG preferred)
• Experience in sourcing for staples, food products, packaging, or manufacturing materials is an advantage
• Proven experience in vendor negotiations and cost optimization