Senior Buyer - Raw Materials

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Annual performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, South Africa, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Buyer to manage procurement of essential raw materials on-site. The role requires strategic negotiation, deep knowledge of commodity markets, and strong supplier relationships to guarantee quality and cost efficiency for production.

You will develop sourcing strategies, lead supplier negotiations, analyse market trends, and ensure an uninterrupted supply chain.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in SCM, Business Admin, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years' procurement experience in manufacturing, focused on raw materials/commodities.
• Proven track record in strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans for key raw materials.
• Lead supplier negotiations to secure favorable pricing, terms, and delivery schedules.
• Analyse market trends and supply dynamics to mitigate risks.
• Build and maintain long-term supplier relationships and monitor performance.
• Ensure a reliable supply chain and compliance with policies.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Negotiation

Supplier relationship management

Analytical skills

SAP

Excel

Leadership

Procurement strategy

Education

Bachelors in SCM/related

Tools

SAP

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the manufacturing sector based in Polokwane , is looking for a highly experienced Senior Buyer to manage the procurement of essential raw materials. This critical on-site role requires a strategic negotiator with a deep understanding of commodity markets and supplier relationships. You will be responsible for developing and implementing sourcing strategies to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality raw materials at competitive prices. This position offers a significant opportunity to influence the company's cost structure and operational efficiency. We are seeking a results-driven professional who can lead complex negotiations and manage key supplier partnerships effectively. Join a well-established company that prioritizes operational excellence and offers substantial career development pathways.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic sourcing plans for key raw materials to meet production demands and quality standards.
• Conduct in-depth market analysis to understand price trends, supply dynamics, and potential risks.
• Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable pricing, terms, and delivery schedules.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with critical raw material suppliers.
• Manage supplier performance, conduct regular reviews, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure a consistent and reliable supply chain for all raw materials, mitigating potential disruptions.
• Collaborate closely with production, quality control, and R&D departments to align procurement activities.
• Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities through strategic sourcing and process optimization.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, ethical guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare regular reports on market intelligence, supplier performance, and cost savings for senior management.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in procurement, specifically focused on raw materials or commodities in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record in strategic sourcing, complex negotiations, and supplier relationship management.
• Strong understanding of commodity markets, hedging strategies, and global supply chain dynamics.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and advanced Excel skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively within a manufacturing plant environment.
• Knowledge of quality management systems (e.g., ISO) is an advantage.

Benefits

• A highly competitive annual salary package up to R .
• Opportunity to work with a leading manufacturing company.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and other benefits.
• Structured professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• A dynamic and results-oriented work environment.
• Annual performance bonuses.