Supply Chain Manager (Cereal Milling) at Ascentech Services Limited

In Nigeria’s fast-paced FMCG sector, supply chain management has become an integral function for companies like Ascentech Services Limited. With Ascentech currently hiring for a Supply Chain Manager in its cereal milling division, this role presents a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to drive efficiency, optimize operations, and contribute to the success of a major industry player. Based in Ilaro, Ogun State, the position requires overseeing supply chain processes in a manufacturing setting, where effective management of resources, suppliers, and inventory is essential for smooth production.

Overview of Ascentech Services Limited

Ascentech Services Limited is a full-fledged human resources and business consulting firm that supports multiple industries, including FMCG, manufacturing, and more. The company’s focus on both talent management and organizational efficiency highlights its commitment to building effective teams across its divisions. As a company with a strong presence in the manufacturing sector, Ascentech is deeply invested in streamlining its supply chain to remain competitive in a highly dynamic industry.

The Supply Chain Manager (Cereal Milling) Role

The position of Supply Chain Manager is designed for experienced professionals with an eye for detail and an understanding of end-to-end supply chain functions. The Supply Chain Manager will be responsible for every aspect of supply chain activities in the cereal milling department, including procurement, inventory management, supplier relations, and warehousing. These tasks are crucial in maintaining a consistent and efficient workflow, as well as in optimizing the costs associated with production.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Procurement Management
   Procurement is a key area where a Supply Chain Manager can significantly impact profitability and efficiency. For Ascentech’s cereal milling division, the Supply Chain Manager will need to establish procurement strategies that balance cost with quality, ensuring that materials are sourced reliably and at the best possible rates. This means liaising with suppliers, conducting negotiations, and setting up partnerships that align with Ascentech’s operational goals.
2. Inventory Control and Optimization
   Effective inventory management is fundamental in the milling industry, where raw materials and finished products must be consistently available. The Supply Chain Manager will be responsible for setting up and enforcing processes that minimize excess inventory while preventing shortages, balancing cost-effectiveness with the need for smooth production. Accurate forecasting and continuous monitoring of inventory levels are vital for avoiding bottlenecks.
3. Supplier Relationship Management
   The Supply Chain Manager at Ascentech must develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers. A successful supply chain manager often finds the right balance between building rapport and maintaining professional oversight, which can lead to long-term partnerships and preferential terms. This role will involve overseeing supplier evaluations and managing any issues related to quality or delivery timelines.
4. Warehouse Management and Logistics
   Managing warehousing operations is an essential aspect of this role, as it directly impacts the efficiency of the supply chain. In a cereal milling setup, optimal warehouse management ensures that raw materials are stored safely, and finished products are easily accessible for dispatch. The Supply Chain Manager will implement best practices for warehousing, including stock rotation, safety protocols, and ensuring that storage aligns with product requirements.
5. Data Analysis and Continuous Improvement
   Analyzing data and using insights to improve supply chain operations is key in this role. By tracking metrics such as lead times, delivery accuracy, and inventory turnover, the Supply Chain Manager can identify areas for improvement and implement changes that enhance efficiency. Continuous improvement is essential in maintaining a competitive edge, especially in the FMCG sector.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Ascentech’s ideal candidate for this position would possess a blend of technical knowledge, industry experience, and strong organizational skills. Here are the primary qualifications and skills expected for this role:

• Educational Background: A degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field is necessary for this role, as it provides foundational knowledge on inventory management, procurement, and strategic planning.
• Experience: A minimum of five years’ experience in a supply chain management role, especially within FMCG or cereal milling, is preferred. This ensures the candidate has relevant industry knowledge and can handle the complexities of the milling sector.
• Certifications: Professional certifications in supply chain management, such as those from APICS, CIPS, or ISM, are valuable and can demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and industry best practices.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with ERP systems and supply chain management software is a plus, as it enables more effective tracking, analysis, and optimization of the supply chain.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: This role requires a strong analytical approach to evaluate performance metrics and implement data-driven improvements.
• Interpersonal and Negotiation Skills: Building and maintaining supplier relationships requires strong communication skills, negotiation expertise, and the ability to navigate challenging conversations with diplomacy.

Benefits and Compensation

The Supply Chain Manager role at Ascentech offers a competitive salary range of N700,000 to N800,000 per month. This compensation reflects the significant level of responsibility and expertise required for the position. Additionally, working with Ascentech offers professionals the opportunity to be part of a respected organization with a focus on operational efficiency and strategic growth.

The Impact of Supply Chain Management on Cereal Milling

Effective supply chain management is especially critical in the cereal milling industry, where raw materials like grains are subject to fluctuating market conditions, seasonality, and storage considerations. Here’s how a well-managed supply chain benefits the cereal milling sector:

1. Cost Efficiency
   A strong procurement strategy helps maintain cost efficiency by ensuring raw materials are sourced at optimal prices. This, in turn, allows Ascentech to keep production costs in check and offer competitive pricing on finished products.
2. Consistent Quality
   Quality control is essential in food production. By fostering reliable supplier relationships, the Supply Chain Manager can secure high-quality raw materials, which directly impacts the quality of the final products.
3. Timely Production and Delivery
   With well-managed logistics and warehousing, production schedules are met consistently, and finished products reach the market without delay. This helps Ascentech maintain a reputation for reliability in the FMCG industry.
4. Adaptability to Market Changes
   In an industry where demand can be unpredictable, having a responsive supply chain is invaluable. Efficient inventory management and data-driven insights allow the company to adapt quickly to changes in market demand, ensuring they meet customer expectations.

Preparing for a Role in Supply Chain Management

For professionals looking to prepare for or excel in a supply chain management role, focusing on industry knowledge and honing specific skills can be beneficial. Consider:

1. Pursuing Certifications
   Earning certifications in supply chain management can enhance a candidate’s resume and provide useful insights into global best practices.
2. Gaining Experience with Supply Chain Software
   Familiarity with ERP and supply chain software is highly valued, as these tools streamline processes and improve data analysis capabilities.
3. Developing Negotiation Skills
   Success in supply chain management often comes down to effective negotiation. Building relationships with suppliers requires a delicate balance of diplomacy and assertiveness.
4. Understanding the FMCG Sector
   Since Ascentech operates in FMCG, understanding the nuances of fast-moving consumer goods can provide a significant advantage in aligning supply chain processes with industry demands.

Conclusion: A High-Impact Role with Ascentech

The Supply Chain Manager position in Ascentech’s cereal milling division is a fantastic opportunity for experienced professionals looking to make an impact. This role not only emphasizes operational efficiency but also plays a key part in the overall success of the organization. If you’re a skilled supply chain professional with a background in FMCG, this could be the ideal role to apply your expertise and contribute to a thriving sector.