Purchasing Agent - Agricultural Inputs

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Purchasing Agent for a prominent agricultural enterprise in Mahikeng, North West. You will source fertilizers, seeds, pesticides, equipment, and supplies, manage supplier relationships, and ensure timely delivery to support farming operations.

The ideal candidate has 3-5 years in procurement within agriculture, strong negotiation skills, proficiency in Excel, and willingness to travel to farm locations in the North West. A relevant qualification is required.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in agriculture.
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Good understanding of agricultural inputs and seasonal requirements.
• Proficiency with MS Office and inventory management systems.
• Valid driving license and willingness to travel to farm locations.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure a diverse range of agricultural inputs, machinery, and supplies.
• Evaluate suppliers based on quality, price, and reliability.
• Negotiate terms and pricing for bulk purchases and long-term contracts.
• Manage inventory levels to ensure stock availability and minimize waste.
• Coordinate with farm managers and agronomists on product requirements.
• Process purchase orders and track deliveries.
• Maintain records of purchases, budgets, and supplier performance.
• Stay informed about market prices and product developments.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and standards.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier management

Excel / MS Office

Inventory management

Education

Relevant qualification in Agriculture / Supply Chain / Business Administration

Tools

MS Excel

Inventory management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural enterprise operating in the Mahikeng region of the North West province, is seeking an experienced Purchasing Agent. This role is critical for managing the procurement of essential agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, seeds, pesticides, equipment, and operational supplies. The Purchasing Agent will be responsible for sourcing high-quality products at competitive prices, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring timely delivery to support the company's farming operations. This is an excellent opportunity for a procurement professional with agricultural sector knowledge to make a significant impact in a key industry within Mahikeng.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and procure a diverse range of agricultural inputs, machinery, and operational supplies.
• Evaluate suppliers based on quality, price, reliability, and adherence to agricultural standards.
• Negotiate favorable terms and pricing with vendors for bulk purchases and ongoing supply agreements.
• Manage inventory levels of key agricultural inputs to ensure optimal stock availability and minimize waste.
• Liaise with farm managers and agronomists to understand specific product requirements and cultivation cycles.
• Process purchase orders, track deliveries, and resolve any discrepancies or issues.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, budgets, and supplier performance.
• Stay informed about market prices, seasonal demands, and new product developments in agricultural supplies.
• Ensure compliance with relevant agricultural regulations and quality standards.
• Contribute to cost-saving initiatives within the purchasing department.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Agriculture, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, preferably within the agricultural sector.
• Strong understanding of agricultural inputs, farming practices, and seasonal requirements.
• Proven negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel, and experience with inventory management systems.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape of the North West province.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to travel to different farm locations as needed.
• A proactive and results-oriented approach to problem-solving.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, medical aid, and retirement fund benefits.
• Employees will have the opportunity to work within a dynamic agricultural business and contribute to food security in the region.
• The role provides exposure to various aspects of large-scale farming operations in Mahikeng.
• Professional development and growth opportunities within the company are available.