Job Description

1. Supply Chain Planning and Forecasting:Develop and implement comprehensive supply chain planning strategies, including demand forecasting, production planning, and material requirements planning (MRP).
   Coordinate with sales and marketing teams to align production schedules with customer demand, ensuring the timely delivery of food packaging materials.
   Monitor and adjust forecasts based on market trends, seasonal fluctuations, and customer orders to maintain optimal inventory levels.
   Work with production teams to plan and optimize production schedules based on material availability and demand.
   
2. Procurement and Supplier Management:Oversee the procurement of raw materials, packaging materials, and other necessary goods required for food FMCG production.
   Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure consistent quality, reliability, and competitive pricing.
   Negotiate contracts, manage vendor performance, and ensure timely deliveries to meet production and inventory needs.
   Monitor supplier performance and resolve any supply chain disruptions or delays.
   
3. Inventory Management:Ensure optimal inventory levels of raw materials, packaging, and finished products to minimize both excess inventory and stockouts.
   Develop and implement strategies for inventory control, including just-in-time (JIT) inventory, to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
   Perform regular stock audits, manage re-order points, and maintain accurate records of inventory transactions.
   Ensure that inventory management practices align with food safety standards and regulatory requirements.
   
4. Logistics and Distribution Coordination:Collaborate with logistics teams to optimize transportation and distribution of raw materials, packaging materials, and finished goods.
   Ensure that packaging materials are delivered on time to meet production deadlines, minimizing downtime.
   Monitor and resolve any logistics-related issues, such as delays, shortages, or miscommunications with suppliers or transportation partners.
   
5. Cross-Functional Collaboration:Work closely with production, procurement, sales, and finance teams to ensure that the supply chain is aligned with business objectives and customer needs.
   Coordinate with product development and R&D teams to ensure that packaging materials meet quality standards and specifications for new food products.
   Collaborate with the quality control team to ensure that materials and packaging are compliant with food safety and regulatory standards.
   
6. Cost Control and Budget Management:Monitor and manage supply chain costs related to procurement, logistics, and inventory management.
   Identify opportunities for cost savings through process improvements, vendor negotiations, and inventory optimization.
   Prepare reports and analyze data to track the efficiency and effectiveness of supply chain processes.
   
7. Process Improvement and Optimization: ContinuouslyContinuously assess supply chain processes and identify opportunities for improvement, focusing on reducing lead times, improving forecasting accuracy, and minimizing stockouts or overstock situations.
   Implement best practices and industry standards to optimize supply chain operations.
   Drive the adoption of advanced supply chain technologies (such as ERP systems, demand planning tools, etc.) to streamline processes and increase efficiency.
   
8. AFZ Compliance: Ensure adherence to the regulations and operational standards specific to the Ajman Free Zone (AFZ), including customs regulations, import/export procedures, and any specific compliance requirements for businesses operating within the zone. Ensure that procurement, storage, and logistics operations follow AFZ's guidelines to ensure smooth operations and avoid penalties or delays.
   

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field.
• Proven experience in supply chain planning and procurement, particularly within the food FMCG sector, with a strong understanding of packaging materials and food production.
• Strong knowledge of supply chain processes, inventory management, demand forecasting, and procurement best practices.
• Experience with procurement of packaging materials (cartons, films, labels, etc.) used in the food industry.
• Excellent negotiation skills and the ability to manage supplier relationships effectively.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software (ERP systems, demand planning tools, etc.).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and standards related to packaging and procurement.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Lean or Six Sigma methodologies to improve supply chain efficiency.
• Familiarity with food industry-specific certifications or quality systems (e.g., ISO, HACCP, GMP).
• Experience with global supply chains and international procurement.
• Advanced Excel skills or experience with advanced data analytics tools.