Our client is a well-established and growing Melbourne-based distributor of food packaging and consumables, servicing hospitality, retail, and food production clients. The business is known for operational excellence, reliable service, and a strong customer-focused culture.
The Role
Reporting to the General Manager, the Commercial Manager will play a hands-on leadership role across finance, procurement, and commercial operations. This position is responsible for driving profitability, cost efficiency, and operational improvement, while leading a small team and managing supplier relationships.
Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Leading commercial and operational performance, including P&L oversight, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance.
- Overseeing procurement strategy, including supplier negotiation, cost optimisation, and managing 90+ suppliers.
- Implementing systems and process improvements across finance, procurement, and reporting functions.
- Coaching and developing a team of six, including procurement and accounts payable, to enhance performance and embrace change.
- Collaborating with sales, warehouse, and customer service teams to align pricing, operations, and margins.
- Driving operational efficiencies and margin improvements through process optimisation and ERP/system utilisation.
The ideal candidate will be hands-on, commercially minded, and entrepreneurial, with strong experience in procurement and finance within FMCG, distribution, or wholesale environments.
Key skills and experience:
- 5–10+ years’ experience in commercial, finance, or procurement leadership roles.
- Hands-on leadership style; capable of driving change in a small, long-tenured team.
- Strong procurement and supply chain experience, including supplier management and cost control.
- Solid financial acumen, including reporting, budgeting, and P&L management.
- ERP/system proficiency and experience implementing process improvements.
- Energetic, commercially focused, results-driven, and able to influence cross-functional teams.
To apply online, please click on the appropriate link below. Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please contact Alex Cox at acox@sharpandcarter.com.au
