Buyer

Mecs Africa; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading procurement company in Johannesburg seeks a skilled procurement specialist to manage supplier relations, negotiate contracts, and ensure compliance with procurement policies. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree, 3-5 years of experience in purchasing, and strong analytical and negotiation skills. Knowledge of manufacturing processes and advanced Excel proficiency are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years’ experience in purchasing, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Good commercial knowledge and negotiation skills.
• Experience working closely with suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Purchase materials and services meeting cost, quality, and delivery objectives.
• Monitor market trends and suppliers to identify risks and opportunities.
• Negotiate contracts and terms to improve prices.

Skills

Strong negotiation expertise

Analytical skills

Effective communication

Knowledge of procurement best practices

Ability to work cross-functionally

Education

Relevant business, commercial, manufacturing, or engineering degree (e.g., B Tech)

CIPS qualification

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

SUMMARY :

This role plays a vital part in securing goods, materials, components, or services that meet cost, quality, and delivery targets. It serves as the main point of contact between suppliers and internal teams to ensure smooth procurement, strengthen supplier relationships, and drive cost savings and process improvements.

This is an employment equity position.

Key Responsibilities

• Purchase materials and services while meeting cost, quality, and delivery objectives.
• Support purchasing and related departments; communicate supply issues impacting the business.
• Interface between suppliers and internal teams on purchasing and new projects.
• Monitor market trends, competitors, and suppliers to identify risks and opportunities.
• Analyze costs, review cost-reduction initiatives, and prepare reports.
• Negotiate contracts and terms to improve prices and business savings.
• Manage purchase orders and schedules.
• Build and maintain professional supplier relationships and communications.
• Ensure compliance with company procurement policies and procedures.
• Conduct supplier research and performance evaluations; resolve issues on price, quality, delivery, or invoicing.
• Adhere to health, safety, and environmental policies.

Qualifications & Experience

• Relevant business, commercial, manufacturing, or engineering degree (e.g., B Tech).
• CIPS qualification or working towards it is advantageous.
• 3-5 years’ experience in purchasing, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Good commercial knowledge, negotiation skills, and cost analysis experience.
• Experience working closely with suppliers.
• Understanding of automotive processes and components
• Proficient with computers, including advanced Excel skills.

Skills Required

• Strong negotiation and purchasing expertise.
• Analytical skills for cost review and supplier evaluation.
• Effective communication and relationship management.
• Ability to identify and contribute to cost savings and process improvements.
• Knowledge of procurement best practices and compliance.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with suppliers and internal teams.