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Assistant Manager – International Buying

07 August 2024
5-7 years
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Job Description

The FMCG Distribution Assistant Manager- International Buying is responsible for the strategic and profitable procurement of products within the allocated budget & categories. Focus product/range include agriculture commodities (rice, pulses, oil, spices, other staple foods), in-house FMCG brands and new categories introduced periodically. This role reports directly to the Division Manager. The position requires expertise in supply chain and inventory management, supplier relationship management, and financial accountability.

Responsibilities

Supplier Management

  • Develop/search (must) new supplier as per division business lines and managing existing suppliers.
  • Ensure multiple alternate sources of supply for each item/category for regular supply of product.
  • Conduct regular supplier audits and performance reviews to ensure compliance with quality standards and delivery schedules.

Procurement Strategies

  • Develop and execute purchasing strategies as per market trends and international market supplies.
  • Should have capability to procure product for in-house (white label) product ranges.
  • Analyse market trends and take procurement decisions as per it.
  • Source competent materials to reduce costs without compromising quality.
  • Ensure no over stocking or stock out situation.

Contract Management

  • Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing agreements with suppliers.
  • Ensure all contracts comply with company policies.
  • Monitor and manage contractual obligations to ensure supplier performance and mitigate risks.

Inventory Management

  • Monitor inventory levels to maintain adequate stock while minimizing excess and obsolete inventory. Must understand STOCK TURNOVER RATIO.
  • Coordinate with warehouse and logistics teams for efficient storage and unloading of containers.
  • Forecasting product requirements as per budget / seasonal impact / crop production cycles etc.

Cost Control and Reporting

  • Develop and implement cost-saving initiatives.
  • Conduct regular cost analyses to identify opportunities for cost reduction.
  • Prepare regular reports on procurement activities, supplier performance, and market trends.
  • Assist in monthly / quarterly budgeting and preparation of prices, cash flow, supplier contracts, and working capital.
  • Must understand pricing value chain for commodities.

Quality Assurance & Others

  • Ensure all purchased commodities meet required quality standards & in country statutory requirements.
  • Ensure necessary pricing approval from government authorities wherever applicable.

Skills

  • 5-7 years of experience in agricultural commodities purchasing and related activities with reputed distribution house; experience in frozen seafood or any other food category is a plus.
  • Established connections with suppliers across Asia, specifically in India for non-basmati/basmati rice range.
  • Should have exposure to GCC/international trade events like food exhibitions etc.
  • Bachelor's degree in any field, proficient in written and spoken English and any regional Indian language.
  • Strong negotiation and communication skills.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work under strict timelines.
  • Capable of managing multiple priorities and working under pressure.
  • In-depth knowledge of the FMCG food business, supply chain processes, and commodity trading.
  • Must have GCC working experience.
  • Strong ethical standards and integrity.
  • Attention to detail and high accuracy.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.