Head of Direct Procurement – Regional Category Management

About the role

The Head of Direct Procurement leads KFC’s regional category management team for Food & Packaging (F&P) within the BMU Supply Chain Management function. Reporting to senior leadership, you will shape long‑term procurement strategies, drive supplier partnerships and champion sustainability across the South African market.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, mentor and develop a multi‑country regional category management team, aligning with regional leadership and stakeholders.
• Contribute to global category management leadership, defining Yum’s overall procurement direction.
• Transform category management into strategic supplier partnerships that deliver value and growth for Yum and its franchisees.
• Design and execute a 5‑year Food & Packaging strategy, including value‑creation and sourcing plans, in collaboration with global teams.
• Build strategic relationships with external partners and create business cases for long‑term investments.
• Oversee key negotiations with strategic category suppliers as required.
• Identify and mitigate strategic risks in core product categories.
• Collaborate with regional brand teams to harmonise specifications and optimise product ranges.
• Lead sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental impact and support Good Growth commitments.

Required profile

• 10+ years of senior supply‑chain experience, preferably in the food industry.
• Proven ability to lead long‑term strategic projects and inspire multi‑country teams.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑influence skills within a global organisation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Project Management or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Strong strategic leadership mindset and willingness to challenge the status quo.

Required skills