Purchasing Specialist - Logistics & Distribution

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a skilled Purchasing Specialist to drive procurement for raw materials, supplies and services within a dynamic logistics environment. You will source, evaluate and negotiate with suppliers, issue POs, monitor performance and support inventory strategies to optimize costs and service levels.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or Supply Chain, 3+ years in purchasing or procurement, and strong ERP experience (SAP or Oracle).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, preferably in logistics or distribution.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Experience with ERP systems SAP or Oracle is highly desirable.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Willingness to work on-site in Durban.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day purchasing activities for raw materials, supplies, and services.
• Source and evaluate new suppliers, ensuring quality, cost, and delivery.
• Negotiate pricing and contract terms with vendors to achieve cost savings.
• Process purchase requisitions and issue purchase orders accurately and efficiently.
• Monitor supplier performance and address issues related to quality or delivery.
• Maintain up-to-date records of purchases, pricing, and supplier information.
• Collaborate with internal departments (warehouse, logistics, finance) to coordinate procurement needs.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies and procedures.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements in purchasing.
• Contribute to inventory management strategies by ensuring timely procurement of necessary items.

Skills

Negotiation

Vendor management

Excel

Data analysis

Communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or Supply Chain

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the logistics and distribution sector, is seeking a highly skilled Purchasing Specialist to join their operations in Durban . This role is central to ensuring the smooth flow of goods and services essential for our client's extensive supply chain network. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to manage procurement processes efficiently, negotiate favourable terms with suppliers, and maintain high standards of quality and delivery. You will be responsible for a diverse range of purchasing activities, contributing to cost optimization and operational excellence. This position requires a strong understanding of the local market dynamics within KwaZulu-Natal and the ability to foster productive supplier relationships. As a key member of the team, you will directly impact the company's ability to meet its operational demands and maintain a competitive edge in the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day purchasing activities for raw materials, supplies, and services.
• Source and evaluate new suppliers, ensuring they meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Negotiate pricing and contract terms with vendors to achieve cost savings.
• Process purchase requisitions and issue purchase orders accurately and efficiently.
• Monitor supplier performance and address any issues related to quality or delivery.
• Maintain up-to-date records of purchases, pricing, and supplier information.
• Collaborate with internal departments (e.g., warehouse, logistics, finance) to coordinate procurement needs.
• Ensure compliance with company procurement policies and procedures.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements in the purchasing function.
• Contribute to inventory management strategies by ensuring timely procurement of necessary items.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a purchasing or procurement role, preferably within the logistics or distribution industry.
• Solid understanding of procurement principles, best practices, and supply chain operations.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) is highly desirable.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Must be willing to work on-site in Durban .
• A proactive attitude and a commitment to achieving results.

Benefits

We offer a competitive salary of R per annum for this position. Our client provides a robust benefits package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and opportunities for professional growth. You will be part of a stable and respected company with a strong presence in Durban . The role offers a chance to work with a dedicated team and contribute to significant operational successes. Be part of a company that values its employees and invests in their development within the thriving economic hub of KwaZulu-Natal .