JOB OBJECTIVE

The role is accountable for driving and delivering the strategy for Direct Import, including the annual procurement plan.
The successful candidate will lead the Direct Import sourcing strategy, managing relationships with offshore suppliers and agents. Critical to the role is engagement with key stakeholders across commercial, finance, supply chain, and quality teams, as well as demonstrating the ability to influence senior management decisions effectively.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES / ACTIVITIES

Define and execute a long-term import sourcing strategy aligned with the commercial business objectives.
Lead strategic initiatives to drive change programs that enhance organizational effectiveness and streamline operations.
Lead the tender process for PNG foreign suppliers and freight forwarders to ensure full value chain optimization.
Ensure a comprehensive understanding of the total cost of ownership, exceeding annual COGS reduction and cost of failure targets.
Lead direct suppliers in product and packaging sourcing to meet ethical, sustainability, and circular economy goals.
Develop and execute the business product sustainability strategy to ensure the successful delivery of short- and long-term commitments.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., commercial, finance, supply chain, quality) to ensure adherence to key business policies in sourcing decisions.
Engage and influence stakeholders and senior management to ensure alignment and approval of sourcing plans.
Identify metrics, tools, and processes to optimize sourcing activities, supplier performance, and operational efficiencies.
Manage FOB costs (in Euros and USD) into NGN delivered costs, ensuring effective management of currency and transport fluctuations.
Act as a highly proficient negotiator capable of handling multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
Initiate and drive projects to reduce complexity, such as harmonization of specifications and suppliers across the business.
Manage sourcing-related risks and opportunities, keeping all stakeholders informed of any P&L impacts resulting from changes in sourcing approaches.
Serve as the central point of expertise in direct imports and a key contact for the wider business on import-related matters.
Lead and manage through a matrix team structure and direct reports, fostering a culture of collaboration, integrity, and humility.
Build strong working relationships across teams to deliver business goals through a cross-divisional ethos.

EDUCATION

A university degree in Economics, Statistics, Sociology, or any relevant discipline
Minimum of 8 years' experience in supply chain procurement role.
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) certification will be an added advantage

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

High Analytical skills
Advanced Excel skills
Planning and Organizing Skills
Organizational awareness
Supply Chain
Stock Management
Computer proficiency (excel)
Trend Analysis
Business Acumen

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Interpersonal skills
Leadership skills
Influencing skills
Analytical skills
Interpersonal skills
Decision making
Strategic thinking
Relationship management