Senior Buyer - Manufacturing

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Bonuses

Training & development

Work-life balance

Employee discounts

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Buyer for a leading automotive parts manufacturer in East London, Eastern Cape. You will lead sourcing for components, materials, and MRO, develop strategies, and negotiate supplier terms to secure cost savings and reliable supply.

The role requires 5-7 years in manufacturing procurement, strong negotiation and supplier-management skills, and ERP proficiency (SAP/Oracle).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field.
• 5-7 years of progressive purchasing/procurement experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record in strategic sourcing, negotiation, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• ERP systems (SAP, Oracle) proficiency; advanced Excel.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Based in or willing to relocate to East London, Eastern Cape.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing and purchasing of manufacturing components, raw materials, and MRO items.
• Develop and implement sourcing strategies to achieve cost reduction and supplier performance.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and delivery terms with suppliers.
• Maintain strong relationships with key suppliers ensuring reliability and quality.
• Conduct market analysis to identify new suppliers, alternatives, and cost-savings opportunities.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to meet specs.
• Monitor supplier performance against KPIs and drive corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, ethics, and regulations.
• Manage inventory levels in collaboration with planning to minimize costs.
• Mentor junior procurement team members.

Skills

Negotiation

Supplier relations

Data analysis

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of automotive parts, is seeking an experienced Senior Buyer to join their operations in East London, Eastern Cape . This role is critical for managing the procurement of components, raw materials, and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) supplies necessary for the manufacturing process. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of manufacturing supply chains, excellent negotiation skills, and a proven ability to drive cost savings while ensuring quality and reliability of supply. You will be responsible for developing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and contributing to the overall efficiency of the production lifecycle. This is a significant opportunity for a seasoned procurement professional to make a substantial impact within a well-established manufacturing company. We are looking for an individual who can lead by example, mentor junior buyers, and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the procurement function. Your expertise will be key to maintaining competitive advantage and operational excellence. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying market opportunities and mitigating supply chain risks.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the sourcing and purchasing of manufacturing components, raw materials, and MRO items. Develop and implement effective sourcing strategies to achieve cost reduction and improve supplier performance. Negotiate contracts, pricing, and delivery terms with suppliers to secure competitive advantages. Manage and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers, ensuring reliability and quality. Conduct market analysis to identify potential new suppliers, alternative materials, and cost-saving opportunities. Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality assurance teams to ensure procurement meets technical and quality specifications. Monitor supplier performance against KPIs and implement corrective actions when necessary. Ensure compliance with company procurement policies, ethical standards, and relevant regulations. Manage inventory levels in collaboration with the planning department to optimize stock and minimize costs. Provide guidance and mentorship to junior members of the procurement team.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in purchasing or procurement, specifically within a manufacturing environment. Proven track record in strategic sourcing, negotiation, and supplier relationship management. Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills. Ability to work independently and manage complex projects effectively. Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO 9001) is an advantage. Based in or willing to relocate to East London, Eastern Cape .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and performance-based bonuses. Significant opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and potential for career advancement within the organization, are provided. The company values work-life balance and offers a supportive team environment. Additional benefits include employee discounts on automotive parts and access to wellness initiatives. This role in East London offers a challenging and rewarding career path in the manufacturing sector.