This is a great opportunity for an Operations Manager to join an established and scaling FMCG business. As Operations Manager, you'll lead the supply chain and operational activities, ensuring seamless product availability and optimal inventory management. You'll play a critical role in driving operational excellence, managing supplier relationships, and spearheading continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and profitability.
Key Responsibilities:
* Oversee the end-to-end supply chain, ensuring effective management of inventory, procurement, production scheduling, and logistics.
* Coordinate closely with commercial teams to forecast demand, plan production schedules, and manage inventory to maintain optimal stock levels.
* Ensure timely order placement and efficient stock management for both raw materials and finished products.
* Proactively manage relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and third-party logistics providers to maintain consistent supply and high service levels.
* Identify, analyse, and resolve distribution and product availability issues promptly.
* Lead negotiations on supplier contracts, pricing structures, and terms to achieve cost savings and secure favourable agreements.
* Conduct regular supplier reviews, managing performance to uphold quality standards and supply chain efficiency.
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing supply chain processes and operational efficiency to reduce costs and waste.
* Support new product development processes, leading operational planning, feasibility analyses, factory trials, and successful execution of product launches.
* Implement and manage environmental and sustainability initiatives within the supply chain to reduce waste and environmental impact.
* Prepare comprehensive operational reports, providing key insights to senior leadership and stakeholders to support strategic decision-making.
* Collaborate cross-functionally, particularly with finance, sales, and product teams, to align operational activities with overall business goals.
About You:
* Previous experience in operations or supply chain management within FMCG, ideally in food and beverage sectors.
* Demonstrated experience managing inventory, production planning, procurement, and supplier relationships.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a proven track record of implementing operational improvements.
* Detail-oriented and highly organized, with excellent project management capabilities.
* Skilled negotiator, experienced in managing supplier contracts and driving cost efficiencies.
* Experience in managing logistics, particularly with chilled or frozen products, is highly desirable.
* Proficient in Excel and experienced in handling complex data for operational forecasting and planning.
* Excellent communication skills, able to build strong relationships across internal teams and external partners.
* Proactive, resilient, and adaptable, comfortable working in a fast-paced, growth-focused environment.
* Aligned with the company’s commitment to health, sustainability, and continuous improvement.