Head of Procurement/Commodity

About Our Client

Founded with a solutions-oriented approach to solving commercial challenges, our client has grown to become a significant player in global supply chain services, focusing on the processes involved in the sourcing and distribution of physical goods and commodities across diverse global markets. The Head of Procurement/Commodity can be based in Johannesburg.

Job Description

About the role and responsibilities:

• Drive the full implementation of strategic plan to build and strengthen our business capacity within the South Africa market and execute strategic partnership with stakeholders.
• Lead the pivotal operations of driving cost-effective procurement practices, fostering supplier relationships, and ensuring supply chain integrity.
• On-board new clients with efficient sourcing, purchasing, and management of goods and services that meet the company's requirements and standards.
• Conduct in-depth market research to qualify developing business opportunities and leverage industry contacts for strategic intelligence.
• Manage data, business partnerships, and project opportunities required to meet metrics for success.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality standards and ensuring timely delivery.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with suppliers and logistics companies to negotiate contracts and terms that benefit the organization.
• Evaluate supplier performance and implement improvements or changes as necessary.
• Lead the management of specific commodities or categories of goods/services.
• Monitor commodity markets, pricing trends, and supply availability.
• Develop strategies to mitigate risks associated with commodity price fluctuations and supply chain disruptions.
• Analyze target/bid reviews and provide ongoing feedback to senior management on the status of capture efforts and the opportunity of continued investment of time and resources in developing business opportunities.
• Serve as the primary liaison and subject-matter expert to internal and external partners and represent the SA strategic plan at meetings, in the office, and externally.
• Contribute to the development of policies and procedures to enhance the company's business development and recruiting practices.

The Successful Applicant

The successful candidate for the Head of Procurement/Commodity role must meet the following requirements:

• Master's degree or equivalent in International Relations, Business Administration or a related field.
• Proven track record of successful business development in the commodities sector, with a focus on agriculture.
• Minimum of 7 years in international business development with considerable exposure to commodities trading and logistics/shipping operations.
• Self-starter with drive to seek new business and meet or exceed targets - from scratch.
• Interpersonal skills for building and developing relationships with clients.
• Written and verbal communication skills needed for communicating with a range of people, both internally and externally, as well as presentation and negotiation skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software to prepare reports and policies.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
• A flexible approach to work with the ability to adapt to a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
• Strong negotiation skills and ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Leadership experience with a demonstrated track record of managing teams and driving results.
• Any Professional Certification in trading, quality assurance, or supply chain would be a plus.
• Ethical and professional conduct in all dealings; strategic thinker with a strong business acumen.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Flexible hours may be necessary to accommodate different time zones and meetings.

What's on Offer

Our client is willing to pay a market-related increase.