My client (International FMCG)based in Woodmead, Johannesburg, is seeking an experienced and hands-on Africa Category Manager (CAPEX, MRO & Spares)

JOB PURPOSE:

To lead supplier consolidation, group-level negotiations, and develop sourcing category strategies and initiatives forCAPEX; Maintenance, Repairs& Operations (MRO); and spares across multiple countries in Africa, in order to optimize cost, ensure supply continuity, and drive long-term value through supplier partnerships and structured service level agreements (SLAs).

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Strategic Sourcing & Category Management

• Develop and execute Africa sourcing strategies for CAPEX, MRO and spare parts



• Identify, evaluate, and consolidate suppliers to optimize procurement efficiency and cost savings



• Conduct market analysis to identify new suppliers and alternative sources of sourcing opportunities



• Drive group-level negotiations for high-value initiatives to achieve cost reduction and improved service delivery

Supplier Management & Consolidation

• Establish and manage supplier relationships to ensure long-term partnerships and performance optimization



• Implement supplier consolidation strategies to reduce complexity and improve service levels



• Develop and oversee SLAs to ensure compliance with quality, delivery timelines, and cost expectations



• Monitor supplier performance using key metrics and drive continuous improvement initiatives

Spend & Contract Management

• Analyse and consolidate high value spend across multiple business units and geographies



• Develop and manage long-term contracts and agreements with key suppliers



• Work closely with country operations and technical teams to formulate best practices to help reduce costs, mitigate risk, and improve efficiency of procurement



• Ensure budget alignment and cost control



• Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement initiatives to drive procurement efficiencies

Operational Efficiency & Stakeholder Collaboration

• Collaborate with procurement teams across different countries to align sourcing strategies



• Ensure compliance with group procurement policies and best practices



• Support digital procurement transformation and leverage tools such as SAP Ariba for sourcing and contract management



• Provide market intelligence and category insights to internal stakeholders for informed decision-making



• Focus on continuous improvement of the way in which the category is being managed such as:

• Propose new standards regarding processes



• Improved business efficiencies and speed to market



• Knowledge sharing with team

QUALIFYING ATTRIBUTES:

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Technical, Engineering, Operations or a related field



• CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurementand Supplyis an added advantage

Experience

• 8 years' experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or category management, preferably in CAPEX, MRO and Spares



• Proven experience in managing sourcing activities for multiple countries, within the African region



• Experienced in spearheading projects or supplier transitions with large matrix collaboration across the organization



• Experience in supplier consolidation and managing high-value negotiations at a regional or group level

Knowledge:

• Solid understanding of procurement best practices, contract management, and SLA development

Skills:

• Proficie