Procurement Lead at Highlands Drinks Limited

Job description

Detailed responsibilities include:

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

• Develop and execute a category-based procurement strategy for key materials (e.g., PET preforms, caps, labels, sugar, CO2, flavours, concentrates, cartons, and closures).
• Establish long-term supplier partnerships to drive cost savings, quality, and innovation.
• Conduct global and local supplier market analysis to identify the most competitive sourcing options.
• Lead supplier negotiations ensuring cost competitiveness, favourable payment terms, and value-addition initiatives.

Cost Optimization & Financial Impact

• Drive procurement cost reduction initiatives without compromising quality and supply security.
• Monitor commodity price trends (e.g., sugar, PET, aluminium) and develop strategies for hedging and cost stability.
• Work closely with Finance to optimize working capital, procurement budgets, and inventory turnover.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Develop a supplier risk management framework, ensuring continuity plans for critical raw materials.
• Ensure compliance with global food safety standards (HACCP, ISO 22000, FDA, and local regulatory requirements).
• Drive ESG-compliant sourcing by prioritizing sustainable packaging, ethical sourcing, and supplier audits.

Supplier Innovation & Sustainability

• Collaborate with suppliers to introduce innovative packaging solutions (e.g., lightweight PET, biodegradable closures, recycled materials).
• Partner with R&D and production teams to source natural sweeteners, alternative carbonation methods, and cost-effective concentrates.
• Ensure procurement aligns with the company's sustainability goals, including carbon footprint reduction and ethical supplier practices.

Digital Procurement & Process Efficiency

• Implement AI-driven procurement tools for supplier selection, demand forecasting, and cost analysis.
• Enhance procurement efficiency through e-procurement platforms.
• Standardize contracting and procurement governance for all direct and indirect purchases.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Procurement Cost Savings – % reduction in material costs year-over-year.
• Supplier Performance – On-time delivery, rejection rates, contract adherence.
• Procurement Cycle Time – Time taken from requisition to contract finalization.
• Working Capital Optimization – Payment terms improvement, inventory turnover.
• ESG & Compliance – % of suppliers meeting sustainability and regulatory standards.
• Innovation Impact – % cost savings and revenue growth from supplier-led innovation.

Education and Experience Level

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• 5+ years in procurement, with at least 3 years in FMCG industry.
• Proven experience in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and cost optimization.
• Proven experience of global commodity markets
• Expertise in food safety regulations, ESG procurement, and sustainability practices.
• Experience with e-procurement platforms, AI-driven procurement tools, and supplier risk management.

Competencies & Skills

• Negotiation & Contract Management – Ability to drive cost savings and long-term supplier partnerships.
• Financial Acumen – Strong understanding of cost structures, budget management, and working capital.
• Strategic Thinking – Capability to align procurement with business growth and sustainability goals.
• Stakeholder Management – Strong collaboration with Finance, R&D, Production, and external partners.
• Digital & Analytical Skills – Experience leveraging data analytics and digital procurement solutions.