Supply Chain & Commercial Manager (Mining / Procurement / Logistics / Contracts Management / FIFO) – Malawi

Reference Number: DGS-0022

Job Description:

Our client is seeking an experienced Supply Chain and Commercial Manager to lead and manage all procurement, logistics, warehousing, inventory, contracts and commercial activities at a mining operation in Malawi. Reporting to the General Manager Operations and functionally to the Chief Financial Officer, the successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient and cost-effective delivery of supply chain services while driving strategic sourcing, supplier performance, commercial governance, risk management and working capital optimisation. As a member of the Site Leadership Team, this role will play a key part in supporting operational continuity, business growth and continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement supply chain and commercial strategies aligned with operational and business objectives.
• Lead procurement, logistics, warehousing, inventory management and contract management functions.
• Establish and monitor KPIs to measure service delivery, inventory performance, supplier effectiveness and working capital.
• Drive continuous improvement, supply chain optimisation and supplier development initiatives.
• Identify and manage supply chain and commercial risks to ensure operational continuity and business resilience.
• Develop and execute strategic sourcing initiatives, including tendering, supplier evaluations, negotiations and contract awards.
• Establish and maintain preferred supplier agreements and strategic supplier partnerships.
• Oversee commercial contracts, including negotiations, renewals, amendments, performance management and dispute resolution.
• Manage domestic and international logistics activities, including freight forwarding, customs compliance and import/export processes.
• Develop contingency plans to mitigate supply disruptions and logistical challenges.
• Oversee warehouse operations and inventory control systems, ensuring optimal stock levels and effective management of critical spares.
• Manage the annual supply chain budget and drive cost reduction and working capital improvement initiatives.
• Lead, coach and develop the Supply Chain and Commercial team, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Collaborate with site and corporate leadership teams to support operational delivery, capital projects and strategic business initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with applicable legislation, corporate governance requirements and health and safety standards.

Requirements: Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Procurement, Commerce, Business, Engineering or a related discipline.
• Professional procurement certification such as CIPS, MCIPS, CPSM or equivalent.
• Minimum 10 years' experience in mining operations with significant exposure to supply chain and commercial management.
• Experience working in Africa or other emerging markets, including remote site-based operations.
• Strong knowledge of procurement, contract management, warehousing, inventory control and logistics.
• Experience managing import/export requirements, customs processes and international freight activities.
• Sound working knowledge of ERP systems, preferably Pronto or similar platforms.
• Proven experience in supplier relationship management, strategic sourcing and commercial negotiations.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, reporting, cost reduction and working capital optimisation.
• Demonstrated understanding of health, safety and compliance requirements within a mining environment.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement, communication and negotiation skills.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism, resilience and attention to detail.

Daniel Scholtemeyer
Executive Talent Consultant
CA Mining

CA Mining will respond to short-listed candidates only. If you have not received a response within two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful. However, your CV will be kept on our database for any other suitable opportunities.

CA Global Headhunters is an international staffing company with a specific focus on recruitment in Africa. Our extensive, diverse candidate network built up over 10 years comprises the most skilled and experienced candidates. We recruit talent of the highest standards across African sectors, including Mining, Oil & Gas, Engineering, Banking, Finance, Legal, Insurance, Commodities, and Agriculture. As African markets continue to grow and develop, so too does our skill and expertise, ensuring that we deliver the best service to both clients and candidates.

Thanks to our access to global networks and resources, we understand our clients’ cultures, operations, business strategies, and industries. We are always on par with the latest technologies and trends which assist us in sourcing the best talent for clients. Whatever stage of the project lifecycle, we can put forward the right candidates with the right skills.