Job Description

My client (International FMCG) based in Woodmead, Johannesburg, is seeking an experienced and hands-on Africa Category Manager (Logistics & Business Services)
JOB PURPOSE:
To lead supplier consolidation, group-level negotiations, and develop sourcing category strategies and initiatives for Logistics and Business Services across multiple countries in Africa, in order to optimize cost, ensure supply continuity, and drive long-term value through supplier partnerships and structured service level agreements (SLAs)
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
Strategic Sourcing & Category Management

• Develop and execute Africa sourcing strategies for Logistics and Business Services
• Identify, evaluate, and consolidate suppliers to optimize procurement efficiency and cost savings
• Conduct market analysis to identify new suppliers and alternative sources of sourcing opportunities
• Drive group-level negotiations for high-value initiatives to achieve cost reduction and improved service delivery

Supplier Management & Consolidation

• Establish and manage supplier relationships to ensure long-term partnerships and performance optimization
• Implement supplier consolidation strategies to reduce complexity and improve service levels
• Develop and oversee SLAs to ensure compliance with quality, delivery timelines, and cost expectations
• Monitor supplier performance using key metrics and drive continuous improvement initiatives

Spend & Contract Management

• Analyze and consolidate high value spend across multiple business units and geographies
• Develop and manage long-term contracts and agreements with key suppliers
• Work closely with country operations and technical teams to formulate best practices to help reduce costs, mitigate risk, and improve efficiency of procurement
• Ensure budget alignment and cost control
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement initiatives to drive procurement efficiencies

Operational Efficiency & Stakeholder Collaboration

• Collaborate with procurement teams across different countries to align sourcing strategies
• Ensure compliance with group procurement policies and best practices
• Support digital procurement transformation and leverage tools such as SAP Ariba for sourcing and contract management
• Provide market intelligence and category insights to internal stakeholders for informed decision-making
• Focus on continuous improvement of the way in which the category is being managed such as:

• Propose new standards regarding processes
• Improved business efficiencies and speed to market
• Knowledge sharing with team

QUALIFYING ATTRIBUTES:
Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Operations, Supply Chain or related

Experience:

• 8 years' experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or category management, supporting Supply Chain or Business Services
• Proven experience in managing sourcing activities for multiple countries, within the African region
• Experienced in spearheading projects or supplier transitions with large matrix collaboration across the organization
• Experience in supplier consolidation and managing high-value negotiations at a regional or group level

Knowledge:

• Sound understanding of procurement best practices, contract management, and SLA development

Skills:

• Proficiency in ERP and e-sourcing tools (SAP, Ariba, or similar platforms)
• Financial acumen
• Strategy formulation
• Analytical
• Negotiation
• Stakeholder management

REMUNERATION:
Salary:

• Market Related

Benefits:

• Pension, Provident Fund, Medical Aid, Car Insurance

Preference will be given to South African Citizens from designated groups
POPI Act:
In line with the Protection of Personal Information Act, 4 of 2013 (POPIA), all personal information submitted in your application will be treated as confidential and used solely for recruitment purposesBy applying for this position, you consent to the processing and storing of your personal information for the purpose of assessing your suitability for employmentShould your application be unsuccessful, your personal information will be securely stored for a limited period and then destroyed in accordance with our data retention policy

Skills Required