Highlands Drinks Limited

Job description

Detailed responsibilities include:

Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management

Develop and execute a category-based procurement strategy for key materials (e.g., PET preforms, caps, labels, sugar, CO2, flavours, concentrates, cartons, and closures).
Establish long-term supplier partnerships to drive cost savings, quality, and innovation.
Conduct global and local supplier market analysis to identify the most competitive sourcing options.
Lead supplier negotiations ensuring cost competitiveness, favourable payment terms, and value-addition initiatives.

Cost Optimization & Financial Impact

Drive procurement cost reduction initiatives without compromising quality and supply security.
Monitor commodity price trends (e.g., sugar, PET, aluminium) and develop strategies for hedging and cost stability.
Work closely with Finance to optimize working capital, procurement budgets, and inventory turnover.

Risk Management & Compliance

Develop a supplier risk management framework, ensuring continuity plans for critical raw materials.
Ensure compliance with global food safety standards (HACCP, ISO 22000, FDA, and local regulatory requirements).
Drive ESG-compliant sourcing by prioritizing sustainable packaging, ethical sourcing, and supplier audits.

Supplier Innovation & Sustainability

Collaborate with suppliers to introduce innovative packaging solutions (e.g., lightweight PET, biodegradable closures, recycled materials).
Partner with R&D and production teams to source natural sweeteners, alternative carbonation methods, and cost-effective concentrates.
Ensure procurement aligns with the company’s sustainability goals, including carbon footprint reduction and ethical supplier practices.

Digital Procurement & Process Efficiency

Implement AI-driven procurement tools for supplier selection, demand forecasting, and cost analysis.
Enhance procurement efficiency through e-procurement platforms.
Standardize contracting and procurement governance for all direct and indirect purchases.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

Procurement Cost Savings – % reduction in material costs year-over-year.
Supplier Performance – On-time delivery, rejection rates, contract adherence.
Procurement Cycle Time – Time taken from requisition to contract finalization.
Working Capital Optimization – Payment terms improvement, inventory turnover.
ESG & Compliance – % of suppliers meeting sustainability and regulatory standards.
Innovation Impact – % cost savings and revenue growth from supplier-led innovation.

Education and Experience Level

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
5+ years in procurement, with at least 3 years in FMCG industry.
Proven experience in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and cost optimization.
Proven experience of global commodity markets
Expertise in food safety regulations, ESG procurement, and sustainability practices.
Experience with e-procurement platforms, AI-driven procurement tools, and supplier risk management.

Competencies & Skills

Negotiation & Contract Management – Ability to drive cost savings and long-term supplier partnerships.
Financial Acumen – Strong understanding of cost structures, budget management, and working capital.
Strategic Thinking – Capability to align procurement with business growth and sustainability goals.
Stakeholder Management – Strong collaboration with Finance, R&D, Production, and external partners.
Digital & Analytical Skills – Experience leveraging data analytics and digital procurement solutions.