Xabiso Mafanya
Raw Material Buyer
PRETORIA
Summary
Dynamic Raw Material Buyer with a proven track record at Coca Cola Beverages South Africa, excelling in supplier collaboration and procurement strategy. Expert in inventory management and demand forecasting, I drive cost-saving initiatives and enhance operational efficiency, ensuring quality and timely delivery of materials while fostering strong supplier relationships.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Raw Material Buyer
National Brands Limited
04.2023 - Current
- Responsible for the procurement and supply continuity of seasoning raw materials used in the production of Willards snack products (e.g., Cheese Naks, Ghost Pepper, Diddle Daddle, etc.).
- Manage a portfolio of flavoring suppliers including Kerry, Givaudan, McCormick, and IFF, ensuring timely delivery and cost competitiveness.
- Collaborate with Production, Planning, and R&D teams to align raw material availability with production schedules and new flavor development.
- Monitor inventory levels, track usage trends, and proactively adjust forecasts to mitigate risks of overstocking or shortages.
- Lead communication with suppliers regarding flavor discontinuations, order changes, and raw material phase-outs, ensuring seamless transitions and minimal waste.
- Negotiate pricing, lead times, and delivery terms in line with company procurement policies.
- Maintain supplier performance metrics focusing on quality, cost, and service reliability.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize procurement efficiency and reduce total supply chain costs.
Raw Material Buyer
Genpact South Africa
04.2021 - 04.2023
- Developed and maintained effective supplier relationships, ensuring timely delivery of quality products to meet operational demands.
- Conducted market research and analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize purchasing strategies for improved profitability.
- Assisted in the negotiation of contracts with suppliers, enhancing procurement processes and securing favorable terms for the organization.
- Utilized inventory management software to track stock levels and streamline ordering processes, minimizing excess inventory and waste.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to forecast demand, aligning purchasing activities with production schedules to ensure efficiency.
- Coordinated with logistics teams to resolve any shipping delays or discrepancies while minimizing impact on operations.
Raw Material Buyer
Coca Cola Beverages South Africa
03.2018 - 08.2021
- Developed and maintained effective supplier relationships, ensuring timely delivery of quality products to meet operational demands.
- Conducted market research and analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize purchasing strategies for improved profitability.
- Assisted in the negotiation of contracts with suppliers, enhancing procurement processes and securing favorable terms for the organization.
- Utilized inventory management software to track stock levels and streamline ordering processes, minimizing excess inventory and waste.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to forecast demand, aligning purchasing activities with production schedules to ensure efficiency.
- Coordinated with logistics teams to resolve any shipping delays or discrepancies while minimizing impact on operations.
Storeman
Coca Cola Beverages South Africa
07.2017 - 03.2018
- Received and organized incoming stock, ensuring optimal inventory levels and efficient warehouse operations.
- Conducted routine checks on stock levels, enabling timely replenishment and reducing product shortages.
- Assisted in maintaining a clean and safe working environment, adhering to safety protocols and regulations.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline loading processes, improving overall efficiency and workflow.
- Utilized warehouse management systems to track inventory movements, enhancing accuracy in stock management.
- Participated in team meetings to discuss inventory challenges, contributing ideas for improved operational processes.
- Enhanced inventory accuracy by consistently maintaining organized and up-to-date records of all stock items.
Education
Logistics And Supply Chain Management
Open Learning Group
Johannesburg, South Africa04-2023
Skills
Supplier collaboration management
Procurement strategy
Cost analysis
Inventory management
Demand forecasting
Quality assurance
Risk mitigation
ERP systems
Microsoft Excel
SAP
Timeline
Raw Material Buyer
National Brands Limited
04.2023 - Current
Raw Material Buyer
Genpact South Africa
04.2021 - 04.2023
Raw Material Buyer
Coca Cola Beverages South Africa
03.2018 - 08.2021
Storeman
Coca Cola Beverages South Africa
07.2017 - 03.2018
Logistics And Supply Chain Management
Open Learning Group