Senior Buyer - Remote

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with bonuses

Remote role

Medical coverage

Retirement fund contributions

Annual leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Buyer for a fully remote role based in South Africa. You will lead procurement strategy, manage supplier relationships, and drive cost efficiencies across high-volume purchases.

Strong negotiation, analytical, and risk-management skills are essential to succeed in a remote-first environment. With 5–7 years’ experience in purchasing or strategic sourcing, you will shape procurement strategies, monitor supplier performance, and ensure compliance while supporting

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or Commerce.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic sourcing and procurement for designated product categories or services.
• Conduct market analysis on supplier capabilities, costs and risks.
• Negotiate complex contracts to secure optimal pricing, terms and quality.
• Develop and maintain relationships with strategic suppliers.
• Drive cost-reduction initiatives and value engineering in procurement.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Negotiation

Contract management

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder management

Remote work autonomy

Cost savings

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Procurement software

Advanced data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding e-commerce giant, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Buyer to spearhead their procurement efforts. This is a fully remote position, offering the opportunity to shape procurement strategies from anywhere in South Africa. The Senior Buyer will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and managing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring the cost-effective acquisition of goods and services essential to the company's operations. This role demands a strong analytical aptitude, exceptional negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of supply chain dynamics. You will play a critical role in driving efficiency, managing risks, and contributing to the company's overall profitability. The remote-first culture ensures seamless collaboration and access to resources, empowering you to excel in this challenging yet rewarding position.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic sourcing and procurement process for designated product categories or services.
• Conduct comprehensive market analysis, including supplier capabilities, cost structures, and risk assessments.
• Negotiate complex contracts and agreements with key suppliers to secure optimal pricing, terms, and quality.
• Develop and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with a portfolio of strategic suppliers.
• Drive cost reduction initiatives and implement value engineering opportunities across procurement activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product development, sales, and logistics, to align procurement strategies with business goals.
• Oversee the entire procurement cycle, from requisition to payment, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
• Monitor supplier performance against agreed-upon KPIs and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and global economic factors affecting supply chains.
• Mentor and guide junior members of the procurement team where applicable.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Commerce, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in purchasing, buying, or strategic sourcing, preferably within a high-volume environment.
• Proven track record of successfully leading negotiations and achieving significant cost savings.
• Strong understanding of contract law and risk management principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in procurement software, ERP systems, and advanced data analysis tools.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and manage priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• A proactive mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and innovation in procurement.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, inclusive of performance-based bonuses and potential for long-term incentives.
• As a fully remote role, you will enjoy significant flexibility and autonomy.
• Employees receive comprehensive medical coverage, generous retirement fund contributions, and substantial annual leave.
• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training programs and industry conferences, are readily available.
• Join an innovative and fast-paced organization that values its employees and fosters a culture of growth, collaboration, and achievement, allowing you to make a significant impact on a global scale from your chosen location.