Operational Specialist - Procurement, Supply Chain & Logistics

Overview

We are looking for a proactive and meticulous Operations Specialist focused on Procurement, Supply Chain, and Logistics to be based in Dubai. The role involves managing procurement, international trade, supply chain functions, import/export activities, and order fulfillment with a key focus on supporting operations in Angola. The candidate will be responsible for coordinating with global suppliers, freight forwarders, customs agents, and internal teams to ensure efficient, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage complete procurement processes for raw materials like wheat, edible oils, rice, sugar, maize, packaging, and other operational supplies through SAP Business One.
• Source suppliers, negotiate pricing and delivery, issue purchase orders, and cultivate strong supplier relationships to maintain competitive pricing and quality.
• Monitor supplier lead times, performance, and purchase order statuses to guarantee timely deliveries and prevent production disruptions.
• Handle international import and export shipments by various transport modes, managing all related documentation such as commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, insurance, and customs paperwork.
• Interface with freight forwarders, shipping lines, customs brokers, and inspection agencies to ensure smooth cargo handling.
• Track shipment progress, resolve logistics and customs challenges, manage exceptions, and keep stakeholders updated.
• Oversee inbound and outbound logistics between suppliers, warehouses, manufacturing units, and customers to optimize delivery schedules and control freight expenses.
• Support warehouse activities including stock reconciliation and inventory accuracy.
• Process orders from customers and suppliers, ensuring records in SAP Business One are accurate and shipments match purchase and sales orders.
• Generate reports on procurement spending, inventory status, supplier performance, freight costs, and logistics KPIs.
• Ensure adherence to international trade laws and company policies concerning import/export documentation, customs, and Incoterms.
• Collaborate with Finance on landed cost calculations, duty documentation, supplier reconciliations, and payment processing.
• Identify and implement improvements in procurement, logistics, inventory, and operational efficiency.
• Work cross-functionally with Finance, Sales, Production, and Warehouse teams to deliver smooth supply chain execution.
• Adapt to additional duties assigned by management to support evolving business needs.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a similar discipline.
• Between 3 to 5 years of hands-on experience in procurement, supply chain, logistics, or operations, preferably in FMCG or food production sectors.
• Proven expertise in managing international procurement and import/export operations.
• Knowledge of international shipping practices, Incoterms, customs documentation, and freight forwarding.
• Familiarity with SAP Business One or other ERP systems.
• Certifications such as CIPS, CILT, APICS, or equivalent supply chain/logistics credentials are advantageous.
• Experience in African markets, particularly Angola, is highly valued.
• Holding a valid UAE driver’s license is preferred.