Assistant Manager of Direct Purchasing

Job description / Role

Description

Who we are
Fueled by passion, Kayali was founded in 2018 by beauty mogul and fragrance fanatic, Mona Kattan. Translating to ‘my imagination' in Arabic, Kayali provides a modern fragrance experience inspired by Mona's rich Middle Eastern heritage and the art of layering scents to help you create your mood; where sharing scents is a ritual and smelling good is both an act of goodwill and self-love. Mona collaborates with some of the world's most renowned perfumers and sources the finest ingredients to create unique juices that are infinitely memorable, long-lasting, and cruelty-free. Each luxurious fragrance is an ode to true craftsmanship and tells a special story, from the addictive notes to the multi-faceted jeweled bottles.

Our mission
To make everyone feel like the diamond they are! To build a global community of fragrance lovers through the power of scent and by providing them with the most innovative & luxurious fragrances, education and sharing our Middle Eastern fragrance rituals with the world.

Summary

This role will play a key role in defining and executing procurement strategies for direct manufacturing needs, including contract manufacturing, packaging, and product formulations. Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, this role focuses on optimizing costs, securing high-quality materials and fostering strong supplier partnerships to support efficient and reliable production. The Purchasing Assistant will drive sustainable and operationally excellent procurement solutions that align with company objectives and values ensuring seamless support for the manufacturing process.

Key responsibilities

1. Direct procurement management

• Identify, assess, and fulfill direct procurement needs for manufacturing, ensuring timely availability of materials and components.
• Collaborate with internal teams (PD, Packaging, Supply, Quality) to align procurement strategies with manufacturing priorities.
• Execute the annual sourcing calendar in coordination with the Purchasing Manager.
• Identify and select qualified suppliers for RFQs based on technical and quality requirements.
• Brief suppliers according to product specifications and manufacturing requirements.
• Negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers to secure the best pricing, contracts, and specifications.
• Review, evaluate, and approve specifications for sourcing projects and awarding contracts through the RFQ process.
• Maintain complete procurement documentation for all direct manufacturing activities.

2. Supplier management & contract management

• Identify and select qualified suppliers, negotiate contracts and pricing, and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure optimal performance.
• Monitor supplier adherence to contractual obligations and proactively address non-compliance.
• Proactively address and resolve supplier issues or disputes.

3. Analysis & reporting

• Assist the Purchasing Manager in developing the procurement strategy.
• Analyse expenditure and procurement data to identify savings opportunities.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the Purchasing team to optimize sourcing and procurement processes.

4. Internal collaboration

• Work with internal teams and suppliers to implement the Purchasing strategy and ensure seamless procurement operations.
• Collaborate with production and supply chain teams to ensure production capacities are met and products are consistently available in stores.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years' experience in procurement or as a Buyer with a proven track record in supplier management; experience in the beauty industry is a plus.
• Strong expertise in direct procurement for manufacturing, including contract manufacturing and components.
• Solid understanding of supply chain processes and production requirements.
• Demonstrated skills in negotiation, supplier management, and cost optimization.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Strategic thinker with a focus on operational excellence.
• Results-oriented and proactive problem solver.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel.

Benefits

• Premium medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Find your magic days
• Volunteer day
• Professional development days
• Birthday leave
• Employee discounts on Kayali products
• Product gifting
• Egg freezing benefits

Kayali is committed to building diverse and inclusive teams and upholding an equal employment workplace that is free from discrimination. We hire stellar individuals regardless of their race, color, ancestry, religion, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, medical conditions, disability, or veteran status. If you need reasonable accommodations at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know.