Ismail Industries Limited is seeking an experienced and results-driven Packaging Buyer to lead strategic packaging procurement initiatives, optimize sourcing activities, and ensure a reliable and cost-effective supply of packaging materials across the organization.

Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement category strategies for flexible packaging, cartons, corrugates, labels, rigid plastics, and specialty packaging materials.
- Lead sourcing activities, supplier evaluations, tendering processes, contract negotiations, and category roadmap development aligned with business objectives.
- Deliver annual cost savings and productivity targets by effectively managing packaging cost drivers, including base materials, inks, adhesives, freight, and foreign exchange fluctuations.
- Drive Purchase Price Variance (PPV) improvements through strategic sourcing and negotiations.
- Build and maintain strategic supplier partnerships through performance reviews, capability assessments, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure uninterrupted supply of packaging materials by implementing dual sourcing strategies and contingency plans for critical materials.
- Monitor supplier performance, market trends, and capacity constraints to support informed procurement decisions.
- Collaborate with R&D, Packaging Development, Manufacturing, and Marketing teams to identify opportunities for packaging optimization, material substitution, standardization, and gauge reduction.
- Support new product development and commercialization projects by ensuring timely packaging sourcing and supplier readiness.
- Drive sustainable packaging and recycling initiatives while ensuring compliance with food safety, quality, regulatory, and environmental standards.

Qualifications & Skills:
- Bachelor's degree in Packaging Technology, Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field; Master's degree or relevant professional certification is preferred
- 8-10 years of relevant experience in packaging procurement within FMCG, food manufacturing, or packaging sectors
- Strong knowledge of packaging cost modeling and category management
- Sound understanding of Procure-to-Pay (P2P) and Material Requirements Planning (MRP) processes
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and hands-on experience with SAP (MM Module)
- Strong commercial negotiation and supplier relationship management (SRM) skills
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills