Client Relationship Assistant – Plastic Recyclables at TakaTaka Solutions

Purpose of the Role

• The Client Relationship Assistant – Plastic Recyclables is responsible for sourcing recyclable plastics from waste pickers, aggregators, and waste collection companies. The role focuses on building and maintaining strong supplier relationships, ensuring consistent quality and supply of materials, resolving conflicts, and expanding the sourcing network to achieve operational and strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities
Supplier Engagement & Relationship Management

• Identify, approach, and onboard waste pickers, aggregators, and waste collection companies.
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with suppliers.
• Train suppliers on company quality standards and ensure compliance.
• Act as the primary contact for suppliers and resolve conflicts effectively.

Negotiation & Supplier Retention

• Negotiate with suppliers to secure quality plastics at competitive rates.
• Highlight long-term value and benefits to retain suppliers.

Planning & Logistics Coordination

• Develop weekly delivery and sourcing plans with clear volume forecasts per region.
• Coordinate with logistics teams for timely material collection and delivery.
• Monitor supplier performance in terms of volume, timeliness, and quality.

Market & Quality Analysis

• Track and analyze sourcing performance by region.
• Recommend sourcing locations based on availability, quality, and reliability.
• Stay informed on market trends and competitor activities.

Training & Quality Assurance

• Conduct training sessions for suppliers on quality requirements.
• Implement quality control checks to ensure sourced plastics meet company standards.

Qualifications
Minimum Education Level

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Environmental Science, or a related field.

Relevant Previous Experience

• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in a similar role, preferably in FMCG, fresh produce, recycling, or waste management sectors.
• Experience in procurement or sourcing, preferably within the recycling or informal waste sector.
• Understanding of recyclable and non-recyclable waste value chains.

Business Understanding

• Strong people management and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of local and regional waste value chains, especially plastic waste.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong negotiation and persuasion skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Conflict resolution skills with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Proven ability to plan and manage multiple sourcing activities and logistics schedules.
• Understanding of recyclable material types and quality standards (an added advantage).
• Willingness to travel frequently within sourcing locations.