Procurement Specialist - Agricultural Inputs

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 400,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical benefits

Retirement savings plan

Generous annual leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Paarl, Western Cape, is seeking a Procurement Specialist to manage the sourcing of agricultural inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and equipment. You will negotiate with suppliers, manage contracts, and optimize procurement processes to support farmers and agricultural operations.

The role requires 3–5 years of procurement experience in agriculture or related industries, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in SCM, Agriculture, Business Admin, or related field.
• 3–5 years of procurement/purchasing experience, preferably in agriculture or related industries.
• Knowledge of agricultural inputs, market dynamics and supplier landscape.
• Proven negotiation and contract management skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure a wide range of agricultural inputs including seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, machinery parts, and operational supplies.
• Negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and delivery schedules with local and international suppliers.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliable supply chains and quality assurance.
• Conduct market research to identify optimal sourcing strategies, cost-saving opportunities, and product trends in agriculture.
• Manage procurement contracts, ensuring compliance and resolving disputes.
• Collaborate with operations and logistics to ensure efficient delivery and inventory management.
• Monitor inventory levels and forecast future demand to prevent stock-outs or overstock.
• Ensure procurement activities adhere to agricultural regulations, safety standards and environmental guidelines.
• Evaluate supplier performance and drive improvements based on quality, delivery, price and service.

Skills

Negotiation

Contract management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Relationship management

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

Tools

ERP software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key contributor to the agricultural sector, is seeking a dedicated Procurement Specialist to manage the acquisition of essential agricultural inputs and supplies. Based in Paarl, Western Cape , this role is crucial for ensuring that farmers and agricultural operations have timely access to high-quality fertilizers, seeds, crop protection chemicals, and equipment. The Procurement Specialist will be responsible for sourcing, negotiating with suppliers, managing contracts, and optimising procurement processes to support the efficiency and productivity of the agricultural community. This position demands a blend of procurement expertise and an understanding of agricultural needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and procure a wide range of agricultural inputs, including seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, machinery parts, and operational supplies.
• Negotiate favourable terms, pricing, and delivery schedules with local and international suppliers.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliable supply chains and quality assurance.
• Conduct market research and analysis to identify optimal sourcing strategies, cost-saving opportunities, and emerging product trends in agriculture.
• Manage procurement contracts, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions and resolving any disputes.
• Collaborate with the operations and logistics teams to ensure efficient delivery and inventory management of agricultural inputs.
• Monitor inventory levels and forecast future demand to prevent stock-outs or overstock situations.
• Ensure all procurement activities adhere to relevant agricultural regulations, safety standards, and environmental guidelines.
• Evaluate supplier performance based on quality, delivery, price, and service, providing feedback and driving improvements.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of procurement policies and procedures to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Agriculture, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in procurement or purchasing, with a strong preference for experience within the agricultural sector or related industries (e.g., chemicals, commodities).
• In-depth knowledge of agricultural inputs, market dynamics, and supplier landscape.
• Proven negotiation and contract management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to make informed decisions.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and experience with ERP/procurement software.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Understanding of agricultural regulations and best practices is a significant asset.
• A proactive approach and a commitment to supporting the agricultural industry.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package that reflects the candidate's experience and expertise, along with performance-based incentives.
• Employees are provided with comprehensive medical benefits, a retirement savings plan, and generous annual leave.
• Professional development opportunities, including training in agricultural supply chain management and procurement best practices, are available.
• The role is based in the scenic agricultural hub of Paarl, Western Cape , offering a unique and rewarding work environment.
• Our client fosters a supportive team culture and provides ample opportunities for career growth within the organization.