Head of Supply Chain

JohnVents FMCG is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Head of Supply Chain to lead and optimise the company's end-to-end supply chain operations.

The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and executing supply chain strategies that ensure the right products and materials are available at the right time, quantity and cost while maintaining optimal inventory levels and high customer service standards.

The role will provide leadership across demand and supply planning, procurement, inventory management, warehousing, logistics and distribution, working closely with Sales, Marketing, Production and Finance to support business growth and profitability.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and execute the end-to-end supply chain strategy in line with business growth and operational objectives. Lead demand planning, supply planning, procurement, inventory management, warehousing, logistics and distribution activities. Establish an effective Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process, ensuring alignment between sales forecasts, production plans, inventory and supply requirements. Partner with Sales and Marketing to develop accurate demand forecasts and anticipate changes in market demand. Translate demand forecasts into effective procurement, production and inventory plans. Ensure adequate availability of raw materials, packaging materials and finished goods while minimising excess inventory and stock-outs. Develop and implement inventory optimisation strategies across raw materials, packaging materials and finished goods. Monitor inventory ageing, slow-moving and obsolete stock and implement appropriate corrective actions. Lead strategic sourcing and supplier management to ensure competitive pricing, quality, reliability and continuity of supply. Negotiate commercial terms with key suppliers and identify opportunities for cost savings and improved payment terms. Develop and maintain strategic supplier relationships and monitor supplier performance. Oversee warehouse operations and ensure effective stock control, storage, material handling and inventory accuracy. Optimise logistics, transportation and distribution networks to improve product availability and reduce cost-to-serve. Ensure finished goods are efficiently distributed to distributors, wholesalers, modern trade and other relevant channels. Monitor logistics partners and transporters against agreed service and cost expectations. Develop contingency plans to mitigate supply disruptions and other supply chain risks. Drive improvements in supply chain processes, systems, controls and operational efficiency. Ensure appropriate supply chain controls are implemented to minimise losses, wastage, inventory discrepancies and operational risks. Lead supply chain budgeting, cost management and productivity improvement initiatives. Monitor key supply chain performance measures including forecast accuracy, inventory levels, stock availability, supplier performance, logistics costs and service levels. Provide management with regular supply chain reports, insights and recommendations. Build, lead and develop a high-performing supply chain team.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Engineering, Business Administration or a related discipline. A Master's degree or professional certification such as CIPS, CSCP, CPIM or equivalent is an advantage. 10+ years of progressive supply chain experience, with significant experience within the FMCG, food, beverage or consumer goods industry. Minimum of 4–5 years in a senior supply chain leadership role. Strong experience across multiple areas of the supply chain, including planning, procurement, inventory, warehousing, logistics and distribution. Demonstrated experience implementing or leading S&OP processes. Strong understanding of FMCG demand planning, inventory optimisation and route-to-market requirements. Proven track record of delivering supply chain cost savings and operational improvements. Strong supplier negotiation and vendor-management experience. Experience managing large inventories and multi-location supply chain operations is an advantage. Strong knowledge of ERP, inventory management and supply chain planning systems. Strong commercial, analytical and financial acumen. Proven ability to lead and develop cross-functional supply chain teams.

Key Competencies

End-to-End Supply Chain Management Demand & Supply Planning S&OP Strategic Procurement & Sourcing Inventory Optimisation Warehousing & Distribution Logistics Management Supplier & Vendor Management Cost Optimisation Supply Chain Risk Management Data & Performance Analytics Commercial Acumen Negotiation Leadership & Team Development Cross-functional Collaboration

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