Procurement Logistics Manager

Role Description:

The Logistics & Procurement Manager will lead end-to-end sourcing, procurement, logistics, and regulatory compliance for vape and tobacco products in the UAE market. The role is responsible for ensuring cost efficiency, regulatory compliance, uninterrupted supply, and operational excellence across the supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

Supplier Sourcing & Management

Identify and evaluate suppliers for vape devices, e-liquids, pods, disposables, tobacco-related products, and packaging.

Maintain a continuously updated approved supplier list.

Assess suppliers based on reliability, cost, quality, and compliance compatibility.

Gather product samples, evaluate quality, and prepare supplier comparison summaries.

Negotiations & Contract Handling

Negotiate product pricing, MOQs, payment terms, and delivery schedules.

Maintain proper written agreements for major suppliers.

Ensure suppliers understand UAE regulatory packaging, labelling, and warning requirements.

Purchase Order Management

Review, issue, and track purchase orders with 100% accuracy.

Ensure timely approval from management before order confirmation.

Monitor manufacturing timelines and production status with suppliers.

Logistics & Supply Chain Management

Oversee inbound logistics (import), warehousing, inventory management, and outbound distribution.

Compare logistics prices and select the most cost-effective reliable options.

Optimize transportation routes, lead times, and warehousing costs.

Implement inventory forecasting and replenishment strategies to minimize stockouts or overstock situations.

Regulatory Compliance

Stay up to date with UAE laws, customs regulations, and import requirements relevant to vape and tobacco products, including excise tax, import duties, and licensing.

Ensure all procurement activities comply with federal and local regulations (including but not limited to the Federal Tax Authority, customs, excise, and health authorities).

Manage proper documentation for import, storage, and distribution of controlled goods.

Cost Control & Budget Management

• Prepare, monitor, and manage the procurement and logistics budget.
• Analyse cost drivers and develop cost-saving initiatives, without compromising compliance or quality.
• Track KPIs such as procurement savings, lead times, inventory turnover, and logistics costs.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Sales, Operations, Legal/Compliance, and Finance departments to align supply chain activities with business goals.
• Provide procurement insights and inventory status to support sales forecasting and planning.
• Support legal/compliance teams in audit preparation and documentation.

Continuous Improvement and Innovation

• Drive process improvements in procurement and logistics (e.g., automation, digital tools, better forecasting).
• Stay informed about global vape and tobacco market trends, new product introductions, and supply chain innovations.
• Train and mentor junior procurement or logistics staff (if any).

Skills & Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in business, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field.
• Proven experience in procurement and logistics (ideally 5+ years), preferably in a regulated industry.
• Strong negotiation, contract management, and supplier management skills.
• Excellent understanding of UAE import/export regulations, excise tax, and compliance requirements.
• Strong analytical skills, financial acumen, and ability to manage budgets.
• Proactive, self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Quick learner able to grasp the vape/tobacco industry specifics and regulatory landscape.
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and capable of working under tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems, procurement software, and Microsoft Office (especially Excel).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in the vape, tobacco, or FMCG sectors.
• Experience with international sourcing and logistics.
• Certifications in supply chain (e.g., CIPS, CSCP) or procurement.