Purchase & Stores Manager

As a Purchase & Stores Manager at the dairy plant in Gudur, Andhra Pradesh, you will play a crucial role in the procurement of raw materials, packaging materials, engineering spares, and services required for plant operations. Your responsibilities will also include managing the stores department to ensure optimal inventory levels, timely material availability, and compliance with food safety and quality standards. **Key Responsibilities:** - Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with production and cost objectives. - Source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers for various materials and consumables. - Monitor vendor performance on quality, price competitiveness, and timely delivery. - Ensure procurement compliance with company policies, FSSAI, and other regulatory requirements. - Develop an alternate vendor base for business continuity and cost optimization. - Collaborate with Quality, Production, and Maintenance teams to understand material specifications. - Prepare and manage purchase budgets, cost analysis, and savings initiatives. **Stores Management:** - Oversee daily operations of stores including receiving, storage, issuance, and record-keeping. - Maintain optimum stock levels to prevent production downtime and reduce inventory carrying cost. - Implement FIFO/FEFO for perishable items and packaging materials. - Conduct regular stock audits and reconcile physical vs. system inventory. - Ensure safe, hygienic, and organized storage conditions meeting food industry standards. - Utilize ERP/MRP systems effectively for inventory management. **Compliance & Documentation:** - Maintain accurate procurement and inventory records for audits and traceability. - Ensure compliance with ISO, HACCP, FSSC 22000, and other quality standards. - Drive continuous improvement projects in procurement and stores processes. In addition to the above responsibilities, you will need to possess the following key skills and competencies: - Strong knowledge of dairy industry materials such as milk handling equipment, packaging, spares, and chemicals. - Excellent negotiation and vendor management skills. - Proficiency in ERP/Inventory Management software like SAP, Oracle, or Tally. - Knowledge of quality standards and food safety requirements. - Strong analytical, cost control, and problem-solving abilities. - Leadership and team management skills. **Qualifications & Experience:** - Education: B.Tech / B.E. in Dairy Technology, Mechanical / Production Engineering, or MBA in Supply Chain / Materials Management. - Experience: 7-12 years in procurement and stores management, preferably in the dairy or FMCG industry. - Certifications (Preferred): Certified Purchase Professional, Six Sigma (Green Belt), ISO/FSSC awareness training.,