Purchasing Analyst

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 320,000 - 460,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington is seeking a data-driven Purchasing Analyst to support procurement by analyzing purchasing data, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and improving processes. You will work with the purchasing team on sourcing strategies and supplier negotiations, with on-site attendance required.

The role emphasizes strong analytical skills, ERP familiarity, and the ability to turn data into actionable procurement insights to drive efficiency in the northern cape region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a quantitative field or related area.
• Strong analytical and data interpretation capabilities.
• Experience with ERP systems and procurement processes.

Responsibilities

• Analyze purchasing data to identify trends and savings opportunities.
• Develop and maintain reports on spend, supplier performance, and savings.
• Support RFQ/RFP processes and supplier research.
• Evaluate supplier proposals and support negotiations.
• Monitor inventory and forecast material needs.
• Track supplier performance against key metrics.
• Ensure data accuracy in the procurement system.

Skills

Analytical skills

Quantitative skills

Excel

ERP familiarity

Report writing

Presentation skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Bachelor's degree in Finance

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

Bachelor's degree in Statistics

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the agricultural supply chain, is seeking a data-driven and analytical Purchasing Analyst to join their team in Upington, Northern Cape . This role is crucial for supporting the procurement function by analyzing purchasing data, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and improving procurement processes. The Purchasing Analyst will work closely with the purchasing team to provide insights that inform sourcing strategies, supplier selection, and contract negotiations. This is an excellent opportunity for a quantitative mind to contribute to efficiency and effectiveness in a key sector within the Upington area. The role requires consistent on-site attendance.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze purchasing data to identify trends, cost-saving opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and maintain reports on key procurement metrics, such as spend, supplier performance, and savings achieved.
• Support the purchasing team in gathering market intelligence and conducting supplier research.
• Assist in the preparation of Requests for Quotation (RFQs) and Requests for Proposal (RFPs).
• Evaluate supplier proposals and provide analytical support for negotiation and decision-making.
• Monitor inventory levels and forecast future material needs.
• Track and report on the performance of key suppliers against agreed-upon metrics.
• Ensure data accuracy and integrity within the procurement system.
• Collaborate with finance and operations teams to align procurement activities with business objectives.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of procurement best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Supply Chain Management, Statistics, or a related quantitative field.
• 1-3 years of experience in a purchasing, procurement, finance, or analytical role.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, with the ability to interpret complex data.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, data analysis tools) is essential.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) or procurement software is a plus.
• Excellent report-writing and presentation skills.
• Good understanding of procurement principles and supply chain processes.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Upington.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive annual salary of , along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a provident fund, and paid annual leave. Employees have access to professional development opportunities and training to enhance their analytical and procurement skills. This role is based in our facility in Upington , offering a stable work environment and the chance to contribute to a vital industry. You will be part of a supportive team focused on driving efficiency and strategic decision-making.