Job Details

📌 Job Title: Materials Manager
🏢 Company: HEINEKEN
📍 Location: Sedibeng Brewery, Midvaal, South Africa
💼 Employment Type: Full-Time

Company Overview

HEINEKEN is one of the world’s leading brewers with a rich heritage spanning more than 150 years. Operating in over 70 countries, HEINEKEN produces globally recognized beer and beverage brands while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and operational excellence.

In South Africa, HEINEKEN is known for its modern breweries, strong supply chain network, and commitment to delivering high-quality products to consumers. The company provides a collaborative work environment where employees can develop their careers in the fast-paced FMCG sector.

Job Overview

The Materials Manager will be responsible for managing and optimizing material operations across the Sedibeng site and offsite warehouses. The role ensures that packaging and production plans are met on time and in full through effective inventory planning, material governance, and supply chain coordination.

This position plays a key role in ensuring stable production through accurate material planning, strong supplier collaboration, and adherence to warehouse and inventory management standards.

Key Responsibilities

Material Operations & Inventory Management

• Manage and optimize material operational activities at Sedibeng and offsite warehouses.

• Ensure the packaging plan is delivered on time and in full through effective material management.

• Maintain a stable 4-week production plan by ensuring consistent material availability.

• Ensure FIFO (First-In-First-Out) principles are followed for all inventory transactions.

• Manage replenishment processes and maintain minimum raw material levels.

Stock Control & Governance

• Conduct stock takes according to agreed procedures and provide variance explanations.

• Manage high-risk materials including expiry tracking, write-offs, slow-moving and obsolete stock.

• Support the PIPO process by ensuring timely data submission and accurate consumption reporting.

• Enforce warehouse capacity and storage principles.

Leadership & Operational Excellence

• Lead and develop a competent and motivated materials management team.

• Ensure compliance with the Quality Management System, policies, and standard operating procedures.

• Drive innovation and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Support TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) implementation and advancement.

• Perform stand-in duties for the PPML Manager when required.

Qualifications

Education

• Relevant Tertiary Degree in:

  • Production Management

  • Operations Management

  • Supply Chain Management

Experience

• Proven experience in FMCG materials management environments.

• Experience with supplier management and engagement.

• Experience in warehouse and inventory management processes.

Skills

• Strong leadership and people management abilities.

• Excellent negotiation and collaboration skills.

• Advanced SAP knowledge.

• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

• Attention to detail and high diligence.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively with planners and site management.

• Ability to develop contingency plans and maintain operational resilience.

CV Tips for Applicants

To improve your chances of securing an interview:

• Highlight FMCG or manufacturing experience related to materials management or supply chain.

• Include measurable achievements such as inventory reductions, improved stock accuracy, or cost savings.

• Showcase SAP, Excel, and data analysis skills.

• Demonstrate leadership experience, including team management or cross-department collaboration.

Benefits

Employees at HEINEKEN may receive:

• Competitive market-related salary

• Medical aid and retirement benefits

• Career development and training programs

• Exposure to a global FMCG environment

• Opportunities for internal mobility and growth

Company Policy

HEINEKEN is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Employment decisions are made based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. The company also maintains strict compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations across all operations.