Buyer

MCE Electric; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading electrical supply company in South Africa is seeking a highly skilled Buyer to manage the procurement process efficiently. The ideal candidate will have strong negotiation skills and a solid background in cost management, alongside proven experience in supplier relationship management. Responsibilities include selecting products, negotiating prices, and monitoring stock levels. Preferred qualifications include a relevant degree in Supply Chain Management and a minimum of three years in a purchasing role. This position offers a competitive salary with growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a buying or purchasing role.
• Proven experience in purchasing locally and internationally.
• Relevant qualification in Supply Chain Management or Business Administration preferred.

Responsibilities

• Selecting and purchasing products/materials for operations.
• Negotiating with suppliers for best prices and terms.
• Creating and processing purchase orders, tracking deliveries.
• Analysing purchasing data to support decision-making.
• Collaborating with stock control and sales departments.

Skills

Strong negotiation skills

Proficiency in inventory management

Analytical mindset

Excellent organisational skills

Strong communication skills

Kerridge experience

Cost management knowledge

Market research skills

Understanding of electrical components

Knowledge of South African procurement processes

Education

Grade 12 Certificate or equivalent

Qualification in Supply Chain Management

Additional certifications in procurement

Tools

Kerridge

MS Excel

Job description

We are looking for:

We're looking for a highly skilled and proactive Buyer to manage the procurement process and ensure we maintain high-quality products at competitive prices to meet our operational needs. If you have experience in purchasing, supplier relationship management, and cost optimisation, we want to hear from you!

Knowledge and abilities:

• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build and maintain supplier relationships.
• Proficiency in inventory management and understanding of procurement processes.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to report on purchasing trends and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong Kerridge experience (preferred), MS Excel proficiency.
• Strong background in cost management, market research, and data analysis to drive procurement decisions.
• Understanding of electrical components and fittings, lighting, solar products, DBs and industrial electrical supplies
• Knowledge of South African procurement, import processes, and supplier ethics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Selecting and purchasing products or materials needed for the company's operations, ensuring that stock levels are maintained to meet demand.
• Prepare and submit marketing designs briefs for packaging development
• Ensure all packaging artwork is checked, approved and sent to the supplier.
• Review and approve supplier artwork proofs before final confirmation.
• Negotiating with suppliers to obtain the best prices and terms, building and maintaining strong relationships with them.
• Ensuring that the products purchased meet the company's quality standards.
• Monitoring and managing the costs of goods purchased, working to reduce expenses and improve profit margins.
• Creating and processing purchase orders, tracking deliveries, and ensuring timely receipt of goods.
• Staying informed about market trends, new products, and potential suppliers to keep the company's offerings competitive.
• Collaborating with the stock control and sales departments to ensure that inventory levels are optimal and aligned with sales forecasts.
• Analysing purchasing data, preparing reports, and presenting findings to management to support decision-making.

Boxes to tick:

• Grade 12 Certificate or equivalent.
• A relevant qualification in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field (e.g., a diploma or degree).
• Additional certifications in procurement or inventory management will be advantageous.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a buying or purchasing role within the electrical wholesale environment.
• Must have proven experience in purchasing locally and internationally.