Area Manager - Procurement (Spices) - Ayekart Fintech

No. of Openings: 4
Location: Guntur, Andhra Pradesh and Mysore, Karnataka

A brief about the job:

The Area Manager Procurement (Spices) is a critical position within Ayekart, focusing on the sourcing and procurement of various spices. This role is designed to ensure the seamless procurement of high-quality spice products from farmers, producers, and suppliers in the assigned geographical area, ultimately contributing to the growth of the organization s footprint in the spice market. The Area Manager will work on expanding market share, optimizing procurement strategies, and ensuring timely supply to meet both internal and external customer demands.

Scope of Work:

The Area Manager Procurement (Spices) will oversee the end-to-end procurement cycle for spices, including sourcing, negotiating with suppliers, managing supply chain operations, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. The role will involve working closely with farmers, traders, suppliers, and the logistics network to maintain a consistent supply of quality spices, optimize costs, and expand market reach in the assigned region.

Main Tasks & Responsibilities:

A. Procurement and Sourcing of Spices

• Collaborate with the Regional Manager Sales to align procurement strategies with sales and market demand for spices.
• Identify and evaluate suppliers for spices, focusing on quality, pricing, reliability, and timely delivery.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing terms with spice suppliers, ensuring competitive and cost-effective procurement.
• Develop and execute procurement plans for different spice varieties, ensuring a consistent and timely supply based on demand forecasts.
• Monitor and assess the quality of procured spices, ensuring they meet industry standards and Ayekart s quality requirements.
• Maintain a supplier database, evaluating and selecting suppliers based on performance and cost efficiency.
• Stay updated on market trends for spices, including price fluctuations, seasonal demand, and new product availability.
• Establish and maintain long-term relationships with spice producers, wholesalers, and other suppliers in the region.

B. Supply Chain Management and Distribution

• Oversee the supply chain for spices from sourcing through to delivery, ensuring optimal logistics and minimal delays.
• Coordinate with the logistics team and distribution partners to ensure timely transportation and delivery of spices to retail outlets, distributors, and buyers.
• Regularly visit farms, warehouses, and supplier locations to ensure smooth procurement operations and resolve any operational issues.
• Ensure the proper storage and handling of spices to prevent spoilage and preserve quality.
• Address any quality control issues in the supply chain, working with suppliers to improve product standards where necessary.
• Track procurement data and generate reports on procurement trends, quality issues, inventory levels, and product availability.

C. Financial Management and Budgeting

• Develop and manage the procurement budget for spices, ensuring that procurement activities stay within financial targets.
• Track and report procurement costs, identifying areas where cost reduction or process improvement can be implemented.
• Monitor payments to suppliers, ensuring that all financial transactions are completed on time and in accordance with contractual agreements.
• Ensure proper documentation for procurement processes, approvals, and payment cycles.

D. Compliance and Market Research

• Ensure compliance with legal, environmental, and regulatory standards for the procurement, distribution, and sale of spices.
• Conduct market research to identify new suppliers, emerging spice varieties, and trends within the spice industry.
• Regularly review and evaluate the regulatory requirements for the spice industry and ensure procurement processes align with these regulations.
• Work with the quality control team to ensure that procured spices meet food safety standards and other applicable certifications.

E. Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with spice producers, wholesalers, retailers, and other stakeholders in the spice supply chain.
• Negotiate deals with suppliers to ensure optimal terms in pricing, volume, and delivery schedules.
• Develop and execute strategies to strengthen the network of spice suppliers and buyers, enhancing Ayekart s market presence.
• Work with internal teams to ensure that the right spice varieties are available to meet customer and market demands.
• Participate in industry events, trade shows, and conferences to explore new business opportunities and partnerships.

Qualification and Experience :

• Postgraduate degree in Business Management, Agribusiness, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• At least 2-3 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, and distribution of spices or related agricultural products.
• Proven experience in managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and optimizing procurement processes.
• In-depth knowledge of spice varieties, quality standards, market trends, and pricing dynamics.
• Strong experience in supply chain management, particularly within agricultural commodities.
• Familiarity with food safety standards, quality control processes, and regulatory requirements for the spice industry.
• Proficiency in MS Office and procurement software, with strong analytical and reporting skills.

Skills and Core Competencies:

A. Essential

• Strong negotiation skills with a focus on cost control and ensuring the best quality products.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders, including suppliers, logistics teams, and internal departments.
• Deep understanding of the spice industry and the ability to forecast market trends and demand fluctuations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to manage relationships with suppliers and distributors.
• Ability to manage time-sensitive procurement processes, especially during peak seasons.
• Willingness to travel regularly for supplier visits, procurement operations, and market research.

B. Desirable

• Expertise in quality control and knowledge of certification standards for spices.
• Experience in managing large procurement teams or working with cross-functional teams to drive procurement goals.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to address challenges within the procurement and supply chain processes.

Reporting

The Area Manager Procurement (Spices) will report to the Regional Manager, seeking guidance and direction on strategic procurement decisions.

Remuneration & Benefits

A competitive remuneration package will be offered based on the candidate s experience and qualifications, including performance-based incentives.

Please share the current CTC, expected CTC, and notice period in the mail.