Category Manager - Spare Parts & Logistics Gauteng - R420,CTC

Category Manager
- Spare Parts & Logistics
- Midrand, Gauteng - R420,000 CTC

Our client operates in the elevator and escalator sector, managing mobility assets and specialized electronic and mechanical lifting equipment components . The business handles technical inventory, global supply chain execution, international shipping, and local distribution across South Africa .

The purpose of this role is to balance precise digital planning in SAP S4/Hana with operational urgency to resolve stock shortages, coordinate customs clearances, and maintain customer lifelines . The position combines commercial management expertise with global supply chain execution to align inventory investments with revenue goals, cash flow targets, and strict service level agreements .

• Manage multi-million Rand budgets, total cost of ownership, and financial performance over a minimum of 5-8 years of technical inventory experience .
• Formulate and execute category strategies for elevator and escalator parts while driving cost-reduction initiatives .
• Execute and analyze daily SAP S4/Hana MRP runs every morning to generate accurate purchase requisitions and audit material master data .
• Process purchase requisitions, place purchase orders, confirm orders with suppliers, and communicate updates to users .
• Oversee stock allocation between central hubs in Gauteng and regional forward-stocking locations in Cape Town, Durban, and Port Elizabeth .
• Manage relationships with clearing agents and freight forwarders, issuing shipping, forwarding, clearing, and inward haulage instructions .
• Act as the primary escalation point for "Unit Down" breakdown scenarios by sourcing emergency parts locally or via global express networks .
• Implement lifecycle management strategies for slow-moving or obsolete parts to reduce working capital traps .

• Minimum 5 to 8 years of experience directly managing complex technical inventory, preferably in elevator/escalator, heavy machinery, automotive, or industrial engineering sectors .
• Minimum 5 years of category management experience, 5 years of international buying experience, 5 years of import/shipping/freight experience, and 3 years of commercial experience .
• NQF Level 7 qualification, specifically a Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Commerce, or a related Business/Engineering discipline .
• Hands-on practical expertise within the SAP S4/Hana ecosystem and daily Material Requirements Planning (MRP) run optimization .
• Technical knowledge of SARS customer regulations, tariff codes (HS Codes), exchange rate fluctuations (ZAR hedging), port handling procedures, Incoterms, and international trade compliance .
• High level of proficiency in Excel, Word, MS Windows, basic accounting skills, and strong business acumen .
• Assertive, detail-oriented, highly numerate, self- and deadline-oriented, and able to thrive under pressure in breakdown scenarios .
• CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) membership or a post-graduate business qualification is advantageous .