Lactalis South Africa Category Manager Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

Lactalis South Africa invites suitably qualified individuals to apply for the permanent Category Manager role, based at its offices in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This position is central to the company's procurement operations and strategic growth within the South African market.

The Category Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing category strategies, managing procurement activities, and ensuring the efficient sourcing of goods and services. This opportunity offers a chance to apply business acumen in a key role that supports Lactalis's objectives during its ongoing expansion in the region.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Background: Possess a University or similar degree, ideally in Supply Chain Management, Business Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience:
• 5-7 years of experience in procurement, with a strong focus on category management and strategic sourcing.
• Demonstrated success in negotiating contracts and achieving cost savings.
• FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) experience is preferred.
• An understanding of sustainability and environmental practices within the food industry would be advantageous.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with keen attention to detail. Proven ability to analyze market data and make data-driven decisions.
• Communication and Negotiation Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with a proven ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Project Management: Skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with procurement software, ERP systems, and other relevant technologies. Advanced computer skills, particularly in MS Office (MS PowerPoint and MS Excel), are beneficial.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing market conditions and business requirements. Capability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Willingness to travel locally to sites within South Africa and to neighbouring African countries.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will undertake the following duties:

• Develop and implement strategic procurement plans and category strategies for assigned categories.
• Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and industry best practices to inform strategic decisions.
• Prepare, analyze, and track periodic budgets.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers.
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and conditions with suppliers to achieve cost savings and ensure high-quality goods or services.
• Conduct sourcing activities to identify potential suppliers and assess their capabilities.
• Manage the end-to-end sourcing process, from supplier selection to contract execution, including overseeing and supporting functions for African countries.
• Monitor and control costs within assigned categories, identifying and implementing efficiency improvements.
• Assess and mitigate risks related to suppliers, market conditions, and geopolitical factors, developing and implementing risk mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies, implementing ethical and sustainable procurement practices.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure category performance, manage vendors, and conduct evaluations.
• Generate reports and analyses to support decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, such as finance, operations, and legal teams, to align procurement strategies with overall business goals across Africa.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement best practices, staying informed about industry trends.

How to Apply

Applications for this Category Manager position must be submitted online.

• Application Deadline: 31 August 2026
• Apply Online: Visit the official Lactalis eRecruitment portal and complete the application process:

https://lactalis.erecruit.co/candidateapp/Login