About Us
Our client is a packaging startup on a mission to redefine how businesses experience packaging. They plan to deliver innovative, sustainable, and cost-efficient packaging solutions tailored for modern industries including e-commerce, FMCG, retail, food & beverage, and manufacturing. As a startup, they will move fast, think big, and empower our people to make a real impact. This is an opportunity to join early, shape the company's growth, and play a key role in building a strong market presence.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Procurement Manager to lead the sourcing and procurement of packaging materials from China to Australia. This role will be responsible for managing supplier relationships, negotiating pricing and contracts, coordinating international logistics, and ensuring consistent supply of both raw materials and finished packaging products. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in overseas procurement, particularly within the packaging or manufacturing industry.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Procurement & Supplier Management
* Identify, evaluate, and onboard reliable suppliers in China for packaging raw materials and finished goods.
* Develop and execute procurement strategies to ensure cost efficiency, quality, and supply continuity.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with manufacturers, suppliers, and sourcing partners.
* Conduct supplier audits, performance reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Import & International Logistics Management
* Manage end-to-end import process from China to Australia, including supplier coordination, shipping, and delivery timelines.
* Coordinate with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers.
* Ensure compliance with Australian import regulations, customs requirements, and documentation.
* Monitor shipping schedules, resolve delays, and manage supply chain risks.
Cost Management & Negotiation
* Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and contracts with overseas suppliers.
* Identify cost reduction opportunities without compromising quality.
* Monitor market trends, material pricing, and currency impacts.
Quality & Compliance
* Ensure all packaging materials meet Australian quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
* Coordinate quality inspections and testing with suppliers and third-party inspection agencies.
* Manage product specifications, certifications, and compliance documentation.
Inventory & Supply Planning
* Work closely with operations and warehouse teams to maintain optimal inventory levels.
* Forecast procurement requirements based on business demand.
* Prevent stock shortages and overstock situations.
Requirements
Essential
* Minimum 5+ years of procurement experience in importing goods from China.
* Proven experience sourcing packaging materials (raw materials and/or finished products).
* Strong understanding of international trade, shipping, and import procedures.
* Experience working with Chinese suppliers and manufacturers.
* Excellent negotiation and supplier management skills.
* Strong commercial acumen and cost management capability.
* Experience coordinating with freight forwarders and customs brokers.
Preferred
* Experience in packaging, manufacturing, FMCG, or distribution industry.
* Knowledge of Australian import regulations and customs requirements.
* Experience with ERP systems (SAP, NetSuite, Oracle, or similar).
* Understanding of quality control processes and supplier audits.
Key Competencies
* Strong negotiation and communication skills
* Supply chain and logistics expertise
* Analytical and problem-solving skills
* Attention to detail and process orientation
* Ability to work independently and manage multiple suppliers
Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Business, Logistics, or related field (preferred)
* Professional procurement certification (CIPS or similar) is advantageous.
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