We Are Hiring!

We’re on the lookout for an experienced Projects Manager to manage timber supply agreements with external suppliers — including individual timber growers, community property associations, co-operatives, and trusts — to develop and enhance sustainable forestry enterprises that supply wood fibre to Sappi markets.

As a Projects Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Managing all timber supply contracts (e.g., FEDA and Khulisa agreements) in line with contractual terms to ensure sustainable supply and the economic and skills development of timber suppliers.
• Developing, coordinating, and monitoring timber deliveries against the sales plan based on available timber volumes in the APO and active Spot contracts to meet market demand and ensure rateable, sustainable delivery.
• Maintaining and enhancing Sappi’s public image by building positive relationships and creating synergies with all stakeholders to grow Sappi’s timber footprint.
• Monitoring loan movement and delivery performance against APO targets in line with budget plans; understanding that silviculture is an advanced function and harvesting a recovery function.
• Maintaining supplier loyalty through regular site visits, offering technical advice, providing guidance, and keeping suppliers informed of industry and organisational developments, including competitor activity.
• Establishing accurate base rates for payment of harvesting and transport contractors by engaging relevant stakeholders to ensure fair rates and inclusive growth.
• Supporting knowledge transfer to suppliers and contractors, identifying development opportunities, and facilitating training to promote the growth of local enterprises and the rural economy.
• Ensuring compliance with company standards (RMS/OHSAct) through education, in-field audits, and counselling, to maintain professional discipline and accountability.
• Promoting supplier independence by encouraging active involvement in their operations and fostering a savings culture to ensure long-term sustainability and enable redeployment of Sappi resources.
• Understanding Khulisa fixed costs and contributing to monthly actuals reporting, including corrective recovery plans.
• Compiling, confirming, and submitting the following month’s sales plan to the Forestry Manager (FM) to enable timely coordination with the Logistics Manager.
• Communicating weekly in-field and depot stock levels to the FM to ensure alignment of supply with market demand.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, SHEQ policies, best-operating practices, and procedures through proactive engagement and use of the “Stop and Think Before You Act (STBA)” methodology.

What are we looking for?

• National Diploma in Forestry or a related qualification (essential)
• A qualification in Logistics and/or Transport Management (advantageous)
• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in timber procurement and/or forestry management
• Code 8 Driver’s License
• Computer literacy, including MS Teams and MS Word