Senior Buyer - Indirect Materials (Remote)

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Home office allowance

Flexible work hours

Career development

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Buyer specializing in indirect materials for a fully remote procurement team. This role focuses on sourcing MRO, professional services, facilities management, and travel, driving cost savings while upholding sustainability goals.

You will develop sourcing strategies, negotiate contracts, and manage key supplier relationships in a remote, collaborative environment. A strong background in indirect spend categories and ERP systems is essential.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in procurement focusing on indirect materials.
• Proven in strategic sourcing, negotiation, and supplier management for indirect spend.
• Experience with ERP software such as SAP or Oracle.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies for indirect spend categories (MRO, professional services, travel, facilities management).
• Conduct market analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and supplier innovation.
• Lead negotiations to secure favorable pricing, terms, and SLAs.
• Manage relationships with indirect-material suppliers and drive performance improvements.
• Oversee end-to-end procurement for indirect categories in line with policies and ethics.
• Monitor supplier performance and conduct business reviews.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Contract negotiations

Supplier relationships

Analytical skills

Financial acumen

Communication

Influencing

Remote collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in Supply Chain Management

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Jaggaer

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the renewable energy sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Buyer specializing in indirect materials to join their fully remote procurement team. This critical role will focus on sourcing and procuring a wide range of indirect goods and services, including MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations), professional services, facilities management, and travel. The Senior Buyer will be instrumental in developing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and driving cost savings while ensuring alignment with the company's sustainability goals. This position requires a seasoned procurement professional with a strong understanding of indirect spend categories and the ability to excel in a remote, collaborative environment. The company’s strategic operations and extensive supplier network impact various regions, including areas supporting activities around Upington, Northern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing strategies for indirect spend categories, including MRO, professional services, travel, and facilities management.
• Conduct comprehensive market analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities, supplier innovation, and potential risks.
• Lead complex negotiations with suppliers to secure optimal pricing, terms, conditions, and service level agreements (SLAs).
• Manage and nurture relationships with key indirect material and service suppliers, fostering performance and collaboration.
• Oversee the end-to-end procurement process for indirect categories, ensuring compliance with company policies and ethical standards.
• Monitor supplier performance, conduct regular business reviews, and implement improvement plans as necessary.
• Identify opportunities to optimize spending, consolidate suppliers, and improve efficiency in procurement processes.
• Collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders across various departments to understand their needs and provide expert procurement support.
• Stay informed about industry best practices, market trends, and regulatory changes affecting indirect procurement.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of procurement technologies and systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in procurement, with a strong focus on indirect materials and services.
• Demonstrated success in strategic sourcing, negotiation, and supplier relationship management for indirect spend.
• Deep understanding of various indirect spend categories and their market dynamics.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and financial acumen.
• Strong communication, presentation, and influencing skills, vital for remote interaction.
• Proficiency in procurement software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Jaggaer).
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Experience in the energy or industrial sectors is highly desirable.
• Commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and annual bonus potential.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous allowance for home office setup and ongoing remote work expenses.
• Flexible work hours and a truly remote working environment.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Contribution to a retirement savings plan.
• Access to cutting-edge procurement tools and technologies.