Procurement Specialist - Automotive Sector

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a leading automotive parts distributor in Midrand, Gauteng, to hire a Procurement Specialist. The role demands driving value through strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and cost optimization within a dynamic supply chain environment.

You will negotiate with suppliers, manage purchasing processes, and collaborate with inventory and production teams to ensure optimal stock levels and on-time delivery in a hybrid work setting.

Qualifications

• Degree in supply chain management, business administration, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in procurement, purchasing, or strategic sourcing, preferably automotive.

Responsibilities

• Identify and source suppliers for automotive components and operations supplies.
• Conduct market research on pricing, availability, and trends in the automotive supply chain.
• Negotiate terms, conditions and prices to drive value and reduce costs.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key suppliers for long-term partnerships.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders with accuracy and policy compliance.
• Monitor supplier performance and address issues to ensure timely delivery and quality.
• Collaborate with internal teams to forecast demand and maintain stock levels.
• Analyze procurement data to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve efficiency.

Skills

Procurement

Negotiation

Analytics

ERP systems

Vendor management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain/Procurement

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading automotive parts distributor, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Procurement Specialist to join their dynamic team in Midrand, Gauteng. This role is pivotal in ensuring the efficient and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services essential for the company's operations. You will be instrumental in managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and optimizing the procurement process to support business growth and maintain supply chain integrity. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of procurement principles, market trends, and a proven ability to drive value through strategic sourcing. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact within a well-established organization in the bustling economic hub of Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and source potential suppliers for a wide range of automotive components and operational supplies, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct thorough market research to stay informed about pricing, availability, and emerging trends in the automotive supply chain.
• Negotiate favourable terms, conditions, and prices with suppliers to achieve optimal value and reduce procurement costs.
• Develop and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers, fostering long-term partnerships.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Monitor supplier performance and address any issues or discrepancies proactively to ensure timely delivery and product quality.
• Collaborate with internal departments, including inventory management and production, to forecast demand and ensure adequate stock levels.
• Analyze procurement data to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve overall supply chain efficiency.
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with legal regulations and company ethical standards.
• Participate in the evaluation and selection of new suppliers through rigorous tendering processes.

Requirements

• A relevant degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in procurement, purchasing, or strategic sourcing, preferably within the automotive industry.
• Demonstrated success in negotiating complex contracts and achieving significant cost savings.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret market data and financial information.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Deep understanding of South African market dynamics and supplier landscape in Midrand.
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective supplier relationships.
• Membership in a professional procurement body (e.g., CIPS) is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a generous performance-based bonus structure.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid coverage, a robust retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the organization.
• A stimulating work environment that values innovation and collaboration is provided.
• This hybrid role offers a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, supporting work-life integration.
• Join a team committed to excellence and drive the future of automotive procurement in Gauteng.