Description The Role We are on the lookout for a Procurement Specialist to oversee our daily purchasing activities across a range of indirect categories for our manufacturing plants. As a Procurement Specialist, you will offer valuable advice and support to the procurement team and key stakeholders across the indirect portfolio, including chemical and consumable goods, corporate services, and capital expenditures. In this role, you will be instrumental in ensuring cost-effective procurement, managing supplier relationships and enhancing operational efficiency.

You will work closely with business units, identifying opportunities and risks that contribute to the success of both the business and the team. We are looking for someone who is analytical, outcome-driven, adaptable in communication, and capable of thinking creatively to solve problems and meet objectives. The main responsibilities of this role include Work collaboratively with category managers and project teams and represents Procurement on assigned projects on a case-by-case basis.

Lead cost-saving initiatives, including the renewal and negotiation of sourcing contracts, and other related activities to drive operational efficiency and value. Provide commercial and competitive perspectives to ensure alignment with business objectives, focusing on cost-effectiveness, risk mitigation, and value creation. Strengthening supplier relationships and developing and monitoring supplier evaluation measures.

Identify strategic issues for procurement and contract management, and their relationship to other parts of the business. This role will be based at our Christchurch site in Dunsandel with some flexibility to work in the city centre, whilst Synlait supports flexible working, we will not consider a remote working arrangement. Skills and Experience To be considered for this role, you will have a proven track record in managing indirect procurement, with strong relationship building skills.

You will ideally have prior experience in purchasing, strategic sourcing, and commercial negotiations, demonstrating your ability to drive cost savings, negotiate supplier contracts, and effectively manage tactical tender processes. Proven experience in managing the entire procurement lifecycle, including sourcing, negotiation, contract management, and supplier performance evaluation. Proven procurement experience with demonstrable successes in the achieving targets through planning and running strategic procurement processes.

Experience in dairy, manufacturing or FMCG preferred Contract drafting and negotiation experience is a key part of this role. Strong listening skills to enable you to identify strengths, weaknesses and alternative solutions when dealing with suppliers. Proven ability to work under pressure and regularly meet deadlines in a multi-tasking environment.

Applicants outside of New Zealand will only be considered if you have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. About Us The Synlait.