Assistant Purchasing Manager

Department: Supply ChainReports To: CEO⸻The Assistant Purchasing Manager at IGL Coatings is responsible for the end-to-end management of supply chain operations — including procurement, import logistics, shipping, and inventory control.Operating in a lean team environment, this role requires a leader who is both strategic and hands-on, capable of managing suppliers, documentation, warehouse operations, and international logistics with precision and accountability.The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, detail-driven environment, is well-versed in trade compliance and procurement processes, and can collaborate across departments to ensure smooth, cost-efficient, and timely order fulfillment.⸻Key Competencies1. Technical Competenciesa) Procurement & SourcingDevelops and executes sourcing strategies to ensure material availability and cost efficiency.Negotiates pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules with local and international suppliers.Ensures supplier compliance with IGL’s quality, regulatory, and sustainability standards.Manages supplier performance through regular evaluation of price, quality, delivery, and service reliability.Maintains accurate procurement documentation and ensures alignment with Finance and Production forecasts.Builds contingency plans for critical materials to reduce supply risk.b) Supply Chain Planning & CoordinationPlans and coordinates the end-to-end flow of materials, from material requests to procurement.Works closely with Production, QC, and Sales to balance inventory, lead times, and demand forecasts.Aligns procurement schedules with production capacity.Monitors and reports on material readiness, stock levels, and potential bottlenecks.c) Import CompliancePrepares and verifies all import documentation including COO, B/L, invoices, packing lists, SDS, and customs declarations.Ensures full compliance with international trade regulations and Dangerous Goods (DG) shipping requirements.Liaises with forwarding agents, customs brokers, and government bodies to facilitate smooth clearance.Keeps abreast of changes in import regulations and proactively mitigates compliance risks.d) Logistics & Distribution ManagementManages both international and local logistics, including shipment scheduling, freight booking, and coordination with carriers.Oversees warehousing operations, ensuring accuracy in stock movements and FIFO practices.Monitors logistics costs, evaluates 3PL performance, and ensures timely delivery to customers and distributors.Verifies packaging, labeling, and documentation readiness prior to shipment.e) Cost Management & Continuous ImprovementIdentifies opportunities for cost optimization in procurement, logistics, and warehousing.Implements process improvements using Lean or Kaizen methodologies to streamline operations.Utilizes data-driven decision-making to improve lead time, cost, and resource utilization.Leads cross-functional reviews to identify inefficiencies and propose corrective actions.f) ERP & Systems ManagementEnsures accurate ERP entries for procurement, inventory, and logistics transactions.Uses ERP data for forecasting, purchase planning, and shipment tracking.Provides system-based visibility of supply chain performance for management reporting.⸻2. Behavioral Competenciesa) AccountabilityOwns end-to-end results for procurement, logistics, and inventory performance.Ensures no shipment leaves without full compliance and documentation.Practices strong follow-up discipline and closes loops across internal teams and vendors.Demonstrates courage in decision-making, takes responsibility for outcomes, and enforces accountability within the team.b) Growth MindsetConstantly looks for better, faster, simpler methods to execute tasks.Learns from mistakes and implements preventive solutions.Invests time in upskilling and improving supply chain tools, templates, and SOPs.Mentors team members to build long-term operational capability and independence.c) SustainabilityPromotes efficient use of materials, transport, and packaging.Implements environmentally conscious shipping and storage practices (load optimization, waste reduction).d) Trust & RespectFosters collaborative relationships across Production, QC, Sales, Finance, and Regulatory.Communicates openly, listens to feedback, and manages conflicts constructively.Builds credibility with internal teams, suppliers, and logistics partners through consistency and professionalism.Encourages a respectful, solution-oriented environment even under high pressure.⸻Core Responsibilities1. Manage procurement, logistics, import operations, and warehousing in alignment with company goals and SLA timelines.2. Execute end-to-end purchasing — from vendor identification and quotation evaluation to PO issuance and delivery follow-up.3. Prepare and verify all trade and export documentation for accuracy and regulatory compliance.4. Coordinate with Production, QC, and Regulatory to ensure goods are ready, packaged, and labeled correctly before shipment.5. Oversee shipping operations (air, sea, local) and liaise directly with freight forwarders to ensure timely and cost-effective deliveries.6. Maintain inventory accuracy and visibility in ERP, ensuring synchronization between physical stock and system data.7. Identify and lead cost-saving initiatives across procurement and logistics functions.8. Enforce compliance with customs, import, and safety regulations, including Dangerous Goods handling.9. Develop and maintain vendor relationships, ensuring quality, cost, and delivery performance.10. Supervise and mentor a lean team of logistics, warehouse, and procurement personnel, while remaining hands-on in daily operations.⸻QualificationsRequired:• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in procurement, logistics, import, or supply chain management.• Proficiency in ERP systems (preferably ERPNext, SAP, or equivalent).• Strong negotiation, analytical, and documentation skills.• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, lean organization.Preferred:• Certifications in APICS CSCP, CILT, or Lean Six Sigma.• Familiarity with chemical or manufacturing industries and DG (Dangerous Goods) import procedures.