Role Overview
The Manager – Procurement & Logistics will be responsible for end-to-end management of procurement, logistics, inventory, and on-site operations, with a strong focus on start-up and stabilization of a new manufacturing plant. The role requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams, suppliers, logistics partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure cost-effective, compliant, and efficient supply chain operations.
Key Responsibilities
1. Operations Related to the Start-up of a New Plant
Design and establish procurement, logistics, inventory, and field operations systems from scratch for a greenfield plant.
Formulate material procurement plans, distribution routes, and inventory policies to support stable plant operations.
Plan and execute warehouse setup including layout design, material flow (inbound/outbound), and field logistics operations.
Establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) post start-up and drive continuous improvement initiatives after plant stabilization.
2. Material Procurement and Supplier Management
Develop and implement procurement strategies for raw materials, components, and subcontracted processed goods.
Identify, evaluate, and finalize suppliers; conduct negotiations on pricing, delivery terms, and contractual conditions.
Manage supplier contracts, performance evaluation, and relationship development.
Conduct procurement cost analysis and lead cost-reduction initiatives through value engineering, localization, and supplier optimization.
Coordinate closely with manufacturing, production planning, quality, finance, IT/systems, and head office procurement teams.
3. Logistics and Customs Clearance Operations
Design and manage domestic and international logistics networks aligned with operational requirements.
Oversee import and export customs clearance processes, documentation, and statutory compliance.
Lead negotiations and performance management of logistics service providers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and warehouses.
Optimize transportation cost, lead time, and service quality while ensuring supply continuity.
Ensure full compliance with applicable trade regulations, customs laws, and corporate compliance policies.
4. Inventory Management
Develop and implement raw material and finished goods inventory management policies.
Define optimal inventory levels to balance supply assurance, working capital, and cost efficiency.
Monitor and analyze inventory discrepancies; identify root causes and implement corrective and preventive actions.
Design, track, and report inventory-related KPIs, ensuring alignment with accounting and audit requirements.
5. On-site Operations Management
Manage warehouse operations, material receiving, storage, issuing, and shop-floor distribution activities.
Define, implement, and continuously improve workflows, work instructions, and operational standards.
Establish operational rules that ensure safety, quality, productivity, and regulatory compliance.
Lead, supervise, and develop on-site teams and subcontractors, depending on scale and structure of operations.
6. Management and Continuous Improvement Activities
Lead continuous improvement initiatives across procurement, logistics, inventory, and on-site operations.
Set departmental KPIs, monitor performance, and drive corrective actions.
Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing procurement and logistics team.
Support organizational initiatives related to cost control, operational excellence, and digitalization where applicable.
Required Profile & Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Commerce, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related discipline (preferred).
Experience
Minimum 10 years of experience in procurement, logistics, and supply chain functions, preferably in manufacturing environments.
Hands-on experience in plant start-up or expansion projects is highly desirable.
Experience working with international organizations, especially Japanese companies or Japanese management, is a strong advantage.
Knowledge & Skills
Strong understanding of manufacturing business processes and supply chain integration.
In-depth knowledge of logistics operations, customs clearance, and international trade compliance.
Proven project management capability to lead cross-functional and multi-site initiatives.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
Effective communication and coordination能力 with internal and external stakeholders.
Language Skills
Fluency in English and local Indian language(s).
Japanese language skills are a plus.