Procurement Manager at Boardroom Appointments

Job Purpose:

• The Procurement Manager is responsible for ensuring the effective sourcing, procurement, and availability of raw materials, components, packaging, and services required to support pharmaceutical manufacturing operations. The role ensures cost optimisation, supplier performance, and full compliance with regulatory, quality, and GMP requirements, while supporting business continuity and operational excellence.

Key Job Outputs:

• Develop and manage procurement strategies to ensure an uninterrupted supply of materials
• Source, evaluate, negotiate, and manage local and international suppliers
• Ensure all procured materials comply with GMP, ISO 13485, and regulatory standards
• Manage supplier approval processes, including specifications, COAs, and audit documentation
• Monitor supplier performance and implement corrective actions where required
• Maintain optimal inventory levels in collaboration with Production and Warehouse teams
• Support demand planning and stock forecasting to prevent shortages or excess stock
• Manage procurement budgets and identify cost-saving initiatives
• Coordinate import and export activities, ensuring compliance with customs and shipping regulations
• Maintain accurate procurement and shipping documentation
• Participate in internal and external audits, providing procurement-related support
• Support New Product Development (NPD) and project initiatives through sourcing of new materials
• Lead, coach, and develop the procurement team to meet operational and performance targets
• Ensure adherence to SOPs, Work Instructions, and company values

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Purchasing Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or Procurement
• Additional qualifications in CIPS, Shipping, Import & Export Management will be advantageous
• Minimum 5 years' experience in procurement or supply chain management within a pharmaceutical, FMCG, or medical manufacturing environment
• At least 5 years' experience in a senior procurement or management role
• Proven experience in supplier negotiation, contract management, and cost optimisation
• Experience working with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, Syspro or similar)
• Strong working knowledge of GMP, ISO 13485, SAHPRA, and regulatory procurement requirements
• Experience with import/export processes, customs clearance, incoterms, and foreign suppliers

Core Competencies:

• Strong negotiation and commercial acumen
• Excellent planning, organisational, and analytical skills
• Attention to detail and strong compliance mindset
• Ability to prioritise and work under pressure in a regulated environment
• Strong stakeholder and supplier relationship management skills
• Leadership and people management capability
• Problem-solving and sound decision-making skills
• Systems-driven approach with strong ERP proficiency