Product Supply Manager Africa - Johannesburg at Unique Personnel

Job Description    
Primary Objective:

• The Product Supply Manager is responsible for forecasting product demand, managing logistics, and ensuring a smooth supply chain for skincare, homecare, herbal range, nutrition, weight loss, and sports nutrition products across +- 15–20 Field Support Centres across African countries.
• This role requires expertise in supply and demand planning, procurement, import/export legislation, and supplier negotiations while ensuring compliance with product regulations and quality standards.
• The manager will lead a team of 4–8 direct reports and work closely with internal stakeholders, including the Warehouse and Pharmacist

Main Tasks:

• Demand Planning & Inventory ManagementConduct product demand forecasting and supply planning for multiple countries across Africa.
• Analyse sales trends, stock levels, and lead times to ensure product availability.
• Monitor sell-by dates, transportation times, and manufacturing lead times to prevent stock shortages or overstocking.

Logistics & Regulatory Compliance

• Oversee the logistics process, ensuring efficient import and export of products across different African countries.
• Understand and comply with various national legislations related to product imports, exports, and customs regulations.
• Coordinate with freight forwarders, customs agencies, and regulatory bodies to ensure timely product deliveries.

Supplier & Procurement Management

• Manage purchasing and procurement for both raw materials and finished goods.
• Negotiate pricing and contracts with suppliers to secure cost-effective deals.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure consistent product supply.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with the Warehouse and Pharmacist to manage inventory levels and compliance with storage regulations.
• Coordinate with marketing teams to ensure compliance with product labelling and country-specific packaging requirements.
• Communicate effectively with different teams and cultures across Africa.

Team Leadership & Performance Management

• Lead and develop a team of 4–8 direct reports, ensuring high performance under tight deadlines.
• Implement stress management strategies to maintain productivity in a high pressure environment.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to ensure team efficiency and accuracy in supply chain processes.

Process Optimization & Reporting

• Utilize advanced Excel skills for data analysis, reporting, and supply chain optimization.
• Develop KPIs to measure supply chain performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Prepare reports on product availability, sales trends, and supply chain efficiency for senior management.

Measures of Success:

• Optimal product availability with minimal stock shortages or excess inventory.
• Efficient and cost-effective procurement and logistics operations.
• Compliance with import/export regulations and marketing label requirements.
• High-performance team delivering results within strict deadlines.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• The role may require some travel across African markets.
• High-pressure work environment with tight deadlines and multiple priorities.
• Prolonged periods of sitting and operating a computer.
• Occasional lifting of materials up to 20 pounds may be required.

Technical Skills & Requirements:

• Education Level: Diploma in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience: 3 to 5+ years of experience in supply chain management, preferably cin a direct selling or FMCG environment.

Skills:

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent Excel and data analysis capabilities.
• Strong negotiation skills for supplier and contract management.
• Ability to handle stress and manage high-pressure situations.
• Excellent command of English; additional African languages are a plus.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Understanding of cultural differences and business practices across Africa.