What Jobs are available for Supply Planning in South Africa?

The Focus Group Midrand, South Africa 29 September 2025 Mid / Senior 0 - 0 Full Time Market Related 5 years - 10 years Skills SAP SAP Supply Chain Management (SCM) Risk Management Supply Chain Planning Forecasting Inventory Control Industries Manufacturing Logistics Job Description

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for balancing demand and supply in a dynamic environment? We are seeking a Demand & Supply Planning Manager to lead forecasting, inventory management, and supply chain optimization initiatives. This role is pivotal in ensuring product availability, minimizing write-offs, and driving operational excellence across the supply chain.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop and maintain accurate demand forecasts using historical data and market trends.

Align forecasts with Product Managers and ensure timely system updates.

Conduct month-end analysis and reporting for local and global stakeholders.

Monitor supplier performance and contribute to supplier evaluations.

Manage product launches and lifecycle changes to ensure timely execution.

Oversee inventory levels and implement risk mitigation strategies to prevent stockouts.

Lead monthly planning and procurement activities.

Act as SAP super user, providing training and support in Master Data, Purchasing, and Forecasting.

Drive inputs into the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process.

Facilitate monthly Demand & Supply Review meetings (3–36 month horizon).

Manage logistics, warehouse, and distribution projects to improve supply chain processes.

Ensure compliance with customs, trade laws, and internal standards.

Support regional logistics initiatives and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Key Performance Indicators:

Forecast Accuracy

Inventory Projection Accuracy

Write-Off Reduction

Customer Service Levels (CSL)

Order Management Accuracy (OMA)

Qualifications & Experience:

Relevant tertiary qualification in Supply Chain, Logistics, or related field.

Minimum 5 years' experience in manufacturing or supply chain with a focus on demand/supply planning and forecasting.

Strong command of English (spoken & written).

Skills & Competencies:

Proficiency in SAP and forecasting systems.

Advanced Excel skills.

Strong interpersonal and influencing abilities.

Detail-oriented with excellent time management.

Customer service mindset.

Experience in business scenario planning, change control, risk management, and continuous improvement.

About the Role

We're looking for a proactive and detail-oriented manager to oversee demand planning and supply chain operations for a growing consumer packaged goods (CPG) business. You'll be responsible for forecasting, inventory management, and ensuring smooth coordination between suppliers, logistics, and retail partners. This role is ideal for someone with strong analytical skills who enjoys problem-solving and driving operational efficiency.

Apply here:

Key Responsibilities

• Demand Planning: Create and maintain accurate forecasts, incorporating sales trends and product launches.
• Supply Chain Management: Monitor stock levels, manage replenishment, and coordinate with suppliers and logistics partners.
• Inventory Control: Ensure optimal stock availability across warehouses and retail channels.
• Reporting & Analysis: Track KPIs (forecast accuracy, on-time delivery, inventory turnover) and highlight risks or opportunities.
• Process Improvement: Support the development of scalable systems and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaboration: Work closely with sales, marketing, finance, and external partners to keep operations aligned.

Requirements

• Experience in supply chain, demand planning, or operations within CPG/FMCG.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel (ERP/demand planning tools a plus).
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail.
• Clear communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Understanding of retail dynamics and promotional planning preferred.

At Roche you can show up as yourself, embraced for the unique qualities you bring. Our culture encourages personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where you are valued, accepted and respected for who you are, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally. This is how we aim to prevent, stop and cure diseases and ensure everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Join Roche, where every voice matters.

The Position

A healthier future. It's what drives us to innovate. To continuously advance science and ensure everyone has access to the healthcare they need today and for generations to come.

Creating a world where we all have more time with the people we love.

That's what makes us Roche.

The Opportunity

Are you passionate about analyzing data, forecasting demand, and ensuring seamless supply chain coordination? We are looking for a Demand Planning and Finance Analyst to join our team in Midrand, Johannesburg. This critical role will ensure the optimal flow of materials by planning, executing, and monitoring the movement of goods from suppliers to warehouses. You'll develop and maintain customer and sales demand forecasts for all product categories, transform these forecasts into timely purchasing strategies, and ensure inventory availability to meet market demand.

In short, this role is pivotal in bridging demand forecasting and supply chain efficiency while maintaining a keen eye on cost-effectiveness and overall operational excellence.

Key Challenges

As our Demand Planning and Finance Analyst, you'll tackle the following key challenges:

• Own and execute the Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) process to align market demands and inventory strategies.
• Forecast customer demand by analyzing historical data and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Translate demand forecasts into precise supply purchase orders, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery to 3PL facilities.
• Ensure minimal supply chain vulnerabilities, such as out-of-stock issues, overstocking, expiries, or disruptions.
• Optimize inventory management and lead root-cause analysis on forecast variances.
• Build and maintain relationships with global suppliers while addressing anomalies in purchase orders or shipments.
• Monitor and report forecast accuracy, inventory levels, and purchase order progress.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to advance demand planning, fulfillment processes, and supply chain best practices.
• Collaborate with logistics and financial teams to align supply chain strategies with business objectives.

Who You Are as Our Ideal Candidate

We are looking for a highly motivated, systematic, and results-driven professional. As our ideal Demand Planning and Finance Analyst:

You have the qualifications and experience:

• A degree (NQF 7) in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Procurement, Finance, or a similar field.
• 3–5 years' experience in Supply Chain Management, Demand Planning, or Finance.
• Knowledge of MRP, ERP systems (SAP), Inventory Management, and Inbound/Outbound Logistics.

You are skilled and solution-oriented:

• A proactive problem solver with attention to detail and a numerically driven mindset.
• Strong in planning and prioritization, with sound communication and collaboration abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (intermediate to advanced Excel) and SAP systems.
• Equipped with outstanding teamwork, business acumen, and conflict management skills.

You deliver operational excellence:

• Thriving under deadlines with the ability to manage both high-level strategy and detailed daily tasks.
• Able to analyze data effectively and identify risks and opportunities for innovation.

You are flexible and customer-focused:

• Committed to ensuring customer satisfaction and adapting strategies to meet their needs.
• Comfortable traveling nationally and internationally for work as required.

A full job description is available upon request.

Note that relocation benefits are not available for this role.

Who we are

A healthier future drives us to innovate. Together, more than 100'000 employees across the globe are dedicated to advance science, ensuring everyone has access to healthcare today and for generations to come. Our efforts result in more than 26 million people treated with our medicines and over 30 billion tests conducted using our Diagnostics products. We empower each other to explore new possibilities, foster creativity, and keep our ambitions high, so we can deliver life-changing healthcare solutions that make a global impact.

Let's build a healthier future, together.

Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

About Us

We are a leading importer and distributor of premium homeware and kitchenware brands in South Africa. Representing a portfolio of world-renowned international brands, we proudly supply both retail and HoReCa channels across Southern Africa.

Please note:

• Start Date: January 2026
• Please submit your application via LinkedIn

What You'll Do Purchasing & Procurement

•  Develop, manage, and execute purchase orders in line with sales forecasts, budgets, and agreed timelines
•  Negotiate with international factories, suppliers, and brand partners to ensure competitive pricing, favourable terms, and reliable supply
• Prepare, submit and manage product compliance submissions and documentation
•  Monitor supplier performance and resolve any issues related to quality, lead times, or compliance

 Inventory & Demand Planning

•  Build and manage demand forecasts in collaboration with sales and marketing teams
•  Maintain optimal stock levels across all categories, balancing customer service levels with cash flow and working capital objectives
•  Proactively manage slow-moving or excess stock through range reviews and promotional planning

 Range & Category Management

•  Work with brand principals and the sales team to plan product ranges suitable for the South African market
•  Support new product introductions, launches, and lifecycle management
•  Conduct regular range reviews to ensure relevance, profitability, and market competitiveness

 Financial & Budget Control

•  Plan and manage purchasing budgets aligned to company objectives
•  Track landed costs, exchange rates, and import duties to ensure accurate product costing and margin management
•  Provide reporting and analysis on purchasing activity, stock holding, and cash flow impacts

 Supply Chain Coordination

•  Liaise closely with logistics teams and freight forwarders to manage shipping schedules, container planning, and customs clearance
•  Monitor end-to-end lead times to ensure consistent product availability and minimise disruption
•  Drive process improvements across purchasing and supply chain functions

Why Join Us

•  Be part of an international brand portfolio
•  Play a key role in shaping product availability and range in Southern Africa
•  Contribute directly to business growth through smarter purchasing and planning
•  Work in a collaborative, fast-moving environment with a passionate team

Benefits

•  Monthly performance bonus
•  Discretionary annual performance bonus
•  Group RA with company matching
•  Home internet reimbursement
•  Employee discount on our awesome products
•  Hybrid work environment with remote working

Job Title: Supply Chain & Procurement Manager – South Africa

Reporting Line: Head of Operations – South Africa

Role Overview:

The Supply Chain & Procurement Manager is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end procurement and supply chain operations across multiple departments. This role ensures the efficient sourcing, purchasing, and delivery of goods and services—both locally and internationally—while maintaining optimal inventory levels and supporting production continuity. The position also includes responsibilities for select sister companies within the group.

A critical aspect of this role is the ability to respond rapidly to stock shortages. It is of utmost importance that procurement actions are taken immediately when shortages are identified, and that parts are delivered on time to avoid production delays. The successful candidate must be capable of designing and implementing new processes and systems to ensure procurement responsiveness and agility across the supply chain.

Additionally, this role serves as the overall custodian of the ERP system (Syspro), ensuring that all supply chain and procurement activities are accurately captured, monitored, and optimized through the system. This requires expert-level knowledge of Syspro, including configuration, reporting, and process integration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Departmental Oversight:
  
  Manage the following departments, each comprising various levels of staff including managers and operational personnel:

• Procurement Department:

• • Local Procurement:
• • Source and purchase goods and services from local suppliers.
  • Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules.
  • Ensure adherence to company procurement policies.
  • Maintain supplier relationships and conduct performance evaluations.
  • Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with internal teams to meet demand.
  • React swiftly to shortages and implement proactive measures to prevent delays.
• • International Procurement:
• • Manage significant international procurement spend, ensuring compliance with global trade regulations.
  • Oversee relationships with international shipping and logistics providers.
  • Lead planning and execution of international procurement, focusing on long-lead-time components.
  • Expedite critical imports based on accurate forecasting and production needs.
  • Support import/export activities for affiliated group companies.
  • Ensure international procurement processes are optimized for speed and reliability.

• Supply Chain Management:

• Oversee the complete supply chain process from sales order through procurement, shipping, and delivery to stores.

• Act immediately on shortages, prioritizing procurement and logistics to ensure uninterrupted production and timely delivery of parts.
• Continuously evaluate and improve supply chain processes to enhance responsiveness and reduce lead times.
• Inventory & Forecasting:
• Collaborate with relevant departments to forecast demand and maintain optimal stock levels in a dynamic supply and demand environment.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs):

• Delivery Lead Time (Sales Order to Invoicing):

• Evaluate sales orders for stock shortages and initiate timely procurement.

• Ensure rapid sourcing and delivery of components to support production schedules.

• Facilitate clear communication between stores, procurement, and production regarding estimated delivery timelines for both local and international items.

• Procurement Spend & Profitability:

• Monitor procurement expenditures to ensure alignment with budgetary constraints.

• Implement cost-saving initiatives to maintain and improve gross profit margins.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Expert-level knowledge of Syspro ERP systems
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• In-depth knowledge of import/export regulations and processes.
• Strong background in manufacturing supply chain management.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing large, diverse teams.
• Self-motivated with the ability to operate independently and solve complex challenges with minimal oversight.

Additional Requirements:

• A track record of successfully implementing solutions in complex and problematic supply chain environments.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and resolve inefficiencies in warehouse operations, leading to improved inventory accuracy and reduced stock discrepancies.
• Proven ability to design and implement new procurement processes that improve responsiveness and ensure timely delivery of critical components.
• Experience in optimizing ERP systems to support operational excellence and data integrity.

Introduction

Reporting into Supply Chain Manager.

We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized individual to join our team as a Supply Chain & Sales Coordinator. This role involves building strong relationships with suppliers and distributors, processing customer/distributor orders, managing supplier orders, assisting with stock reconciliations, and negotiating shipping rates with forwarders.

Package & Remuneration

Paying up to R35K

Duties & Responsibilities

• Order Processing & sales administration
• Accurately input, process, and track customer/distributors orders
• Effectively and proactively communicate (weekly) order confirmations, updates, and delivery timelines to distributors
• Coordinate with suppliers efficiently to ensure timely order fulfilment
• Create and process purchase orders for suppliers
• Track supplier deliveries to ensure timely receipt of goods
• Build and maintain professional relationships with distributors and suppliers
• Address order-related inquiries, complaints, or issues promptly and professionally with the relevant department
• Assist with any new system implementation, maintenance and streamlining of processes
• Ensuring info on systems is updated and accurate at all times
• Perform regular stock reconciliations to identify discrepancies and resolve them efficiently
• Monitor inventory levels, flag shortages, and coordinate reordering with suppliers, as advised
• Check cost and selling prices and margins are approved and within target
• Maintain accurate records of stock movements and update inventory systems
• Work with freight forwarders and understand INCOTERMS
• Assist with submission of documentation for shipping or compliance requirements
• Price list updates and management
• All order forms to be updated with any changes on pricing or lines and communicated to distributors
• Distributors contact sheet to be updated and maintained
• Monthly stock recon and margin reports

Desired Experience & Qualification

• Experience in working with freight forwarders
• Preferred Qualifications - Degree/certificate in Supply Chain Management or a related field
• Min of 5 years' experience in manufacturing, logistics and supply chain is essential
• Experience in working with freight forwarders
• Experience in working with international suppliers and customers
• Familiarity with CRM or ERP systems.
• Experience in order processing, office administration, import/export knowledge and inventory management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (excel is required), strong computer skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Knowledge of stock control and supplier order management processes
• Individual that is proactive and takes initiative
• Work well independently and as a team member
• Good work ethic and willingness to go the extra mile
• Experience in process improvement and efficiency initiatives

Purpose of the role

The Supply Chain Admin Clerk is responsible for providing administrative and clerical support to the supply chain team. The role ensures accurate documentation, effective communication with stakeholders, and smooth coordination of supply chain processes, contributing to efficiency and compliance in daily operations.

Main responsibilities

? Maintain and update supply chain records, files, and databases accurately.

? Process delivery notes, invoices, and other supply chain documentation.

? Assist in inbound planning for supplier delivery

? Assist in monitoring stock levels and inventory movement, highlighting discrepancies.

? Support supplier and customer communication, ensuring timely responses and follow-ups.

? Capture and reconcile data for reporting purposes (stock, orders, deliveries, invoices).

? Coordinate with warehouses, transport, and procurement teams to ensure smooth operations and seamless process flows.

? Assist with preparation of supply chain reports and performance metrics.

? Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

? Provide general administrative support to the supply chain department.

The successful candidate should have the following skills, experience and attributes:

? Matric (Grade 12) or equivalent; a diploma/certificate in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or Administration will be advantageous.

? Previous experience in an administrative or clerical role, preferably in supply chain/logistics.

? Proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook); knowledge of ERP systems is an advantage.

? Strong organizational and time-management skills.

? Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

? Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.

? Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

? Administrative efficiency and accuracy.

? Problem-solving and analytical thinking.

? Teamwork and collaboration.

? Accountability and reliability.

? Customer service orientation.