Purchase & Stores Manager

Location: Gudur ,Andhra Pradesh

Reports to: Plant Head

Role Overview

The Purchase & Stores Manager will be responsible for end-to-end procurement of raw materials, packaging materials, engineering spares, and services required for dairy plant operations. Additionally, the role involves managing the stores department to ensure optimum inventory levels, timely availability of materials, and compliance with food safety and quality standards.

Procurement

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with production and cost objectives.
• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers for raw milk handling equipment, packaging materials, chemicals, spare parts, and other consumables.
• Monitor vendor performance on quality, price competitiveness, and timely delivery.
• Ensure procurement complies with company policies, FSSAI, and other regulatory requirements.
• Develop alternate vendor base to ensure business continuity and cost optimization.
• Work closely with Quality, Production, and Maintenance teams to understand material specifications and requirements.
• Prepare and manage purchase budgets, cost analysis, and savings initiatives.
  
  

Stores Management

• Oversee daily operations of stores – receiving, storage, issuance, and record-keeping of materials.
• Maintain optimum stock levels to avoid production downtime and minimize inventory carrying cost.
• Implement FIFO/FEFO for perishable items and packaging materials.
• Conduct regular stock audits and reconcile physical vs. system inventory.
• Ensure safe, hygienic, and organized storage conditions as per food industry standards.
• Implement ERP/MRP systems effectively for inventory management.
  
  

Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain accurate procurement and inventory records for audits and traceability.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, HACCP, FSSC 22000, and other quality standards.
• Drive continuous improvement projects in procurement and stores processes.
  
  

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of dairy industry materials (milk handling equipment, packaging, spares, chemicals).
• Negotiation and vendor management skills.
• ERP/Inventory Management software proficiency (SAP/Oracle/Tally).
• Knowledge of quality standards and food safety requirements.
• Strong analytical, cost control, and problem-solving abilities.
• Leadership and team management skills.
  
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: B.Tech / B.E. in Dairy Technology, Mechanical / Production Engineering, or MBA in Supply Chain / Materials Management.
• Experience: 7–12 years of experience in procurement and stores management, preferably in the dairy or FMCG industry.
• Certifications (Preferred): Certified Purchase Professional, Six Sigma (Green Belt), ISO/FSSC awareness training.