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Head of Supply Chain – Global Demand & Supply Operations

Operations ~ Supply Chain
Gauteng – South Africa

Our client in the pharmaceutical industry is seeking an experienced and commercially astute Head of Supply Chain – Global Demand & Supply Operations to lead the strategic and operational management of its distribution and supply operations. This senior leadership role is responsible for ensuring the right products are available at the right time and in the right quantities, while maintaining supply continuity, optimising inventory, and ensuring compliance with pharmaceutical quality and regulatory requirements.
 
Key Responsibilities
 
  • Lead end-to-end supply and demand planning to ensure optimal product availability and service levels.
  • Partner with Commercial and Sales teams to translate forecasts and market demand into effective supply requirements.
  • Monitor demand, actual sales, and potential supply risks, implementing contingency plans for shortages, delays, and disruptions.
  • Oversee distribution and logistics operations, including relationships with 3PL providers, warehouses, distributors, and other supply partners.
  • Develop and implement inventory strategies to minimise stock-outs, excess, obsolete, short-dated, and expired inventory.
  • Drive inventory optimisation, forecasting accuracy, working capital improvement, and supply continuity across the portfolio.
  • Work closely with Sales and Marketing to support product launches, campaigns, and changing market requirements.
  • Strengthen coordination between the local business, manufacturing sites, distribution partners, and broader supply operations.
  • Ensure all supply and distribution activities comply with applicable pharmaceutical legislation, company policies, and Good Distribution Practice (GDP) requirements.
  • Manage supply planning, forecasting, inventory, and execution across multiple market channels and complex business requirements.
 
Minimum Requirements
 
  • BCom in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Management, or a related qualification.
  • Minimum 8–10 years’ relevant supply chain experience, preferably within the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry.
  • At least 5 years’ experience in a senior management or leadership role.
  • Proven experience managing distribution, inventory, supply planning, and supply operations.
  • Strong financial and budgeting skills and experience.
  • Strong commercial acumen and understanding of complex supply chain environments.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement and cross-functional collaboration capability.
 
The ideal candidate is a strategic, analytical, and commercially minded supply chain leader with strong organisational and problem-solving capabilities. Excellent communication, cross-functional collaboration, initiative, and the ability to identify relationships between demand, inventory, distribution, and commercial requirements are essential for success in this role. If you are an experienced supply chain leader passionate about optimising inventory, strengthening supply continuity, and driving operational excellence within the pharmaceutical industry, apply now using the link below.