Buyer II

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 450,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Buyer II for a hybrid procurement role in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will drive strategic sourcing, manage supplier relationships, and negotiate contracts to ensure competitive pricing and reliable supply chains.

The role requires 3–5 years in buyer/purchasing, a relevant degree, and strong negotiation and analytical skills. You will collaborate with product development, marketing and operations, with a mix of office and remote work.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Commerce or related discipline.
• 3–5 years of experience in a buyer or purchasing role, preferably FMCG/retail.
• Proven negotiation experience managing supplier contracts.
• Solid understanding of procurement best practices and supply chain principles.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Manage procurement for assigned product categories from supplier selection to order placement.
• Conduct market research to identify sourcing opportunities and assess supplier capabilities.
• Negotiate pricing, terms and conditions to achieve cost savings and meet budgets.
• Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers for quality and timely delivery.
• Collaborate with product development, marketing and operations to understand specs and demand forecasts.
• Monitor market trends and commodity prices to inform sourcing strategies.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and ethical sourcing standards.
• Process purchase orders and manage supplier communications.
• Assist in evaluating supplier performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Resolve discrepancies related to supplier orders and deliveries.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Multitasking

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Tools

ERP systems

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the FMCG sector, is looking for an experienced Buyer II to join their procurement team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This hybrid role requires a professional who can contribute to the strategic sourcing of various product categories, ensuring competitive pricing and reliable supply chains. The Buyer II will manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and work closely with internal departments to meet product development and operational needs. The hybrid model allows for a balanced approach, combining office-based collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. We are seeking an individual with a strong understanding of the local market and a proven ability to drive value in purchasing decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the procurement process for assigned product categories, from supplier selection to order placement.
• Conduct thorough market research to identify new sourcing opportunities and assess supplier capabilities.
• Negotiate favorable pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers to achieve cost savings and meet budget requirements.
• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery.
• Collaborate with product development, marketing, and operations teams to understand product specifications and demand forecasts.
• Monitor market trends, commodity prices, and competitor activities to inform sourcing strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, procedures, and ethical sourcing standards.
• Process purchase orders and manage supplier communications effectively.
• Assist in the evaluation of supplier performance and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Resolve any discrepancies or issues related to supplier orders and deliveries.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Commerce, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a buyer or purchasing role, preferably within the FMCG or retail industry.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills and experience in managing supplier contracts.
• Solid understanding of procurement best practices and supply chain principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and experience with ERP systems.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make sound purchasing decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, potential for annual bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund. This hybrid role provides a flexible work arrangement, combining office-based activities in Port Elizabeth with remote workdays. Professional development opportunities and career growth prospects within the organization are significant. The company fosters a collaborative and supportive team environment.