Senior Category Buyer

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary and incentives

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, is seeking a Senior Category Buyer for the agricultural and mining supply sector. The role blends on-site collaboration with remote work in a Hybrid model, and focuses on sourcing strategies, supplier negotiations, and category leadership to drive cost savings and supply chain performance.

You will develop category strategies, analyze markets, negotiate contracts, manage supplier relationships, monitor KPIs, and mentor junior buyers, while aligning with

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a related field is required.
• Proven experience in strategic sourcing and contract management.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for assigned procurement areas.
• Conduct market analysis, identify suppliers, and lead sourcing events.
• Negotiate high-value contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to achieve cost savings.
• Manage and develop strategic relationships with key suppliers.
• Monitor category performance against budgets, KPIs, and SLAs.
• Collaborate with operations and finance to align procurement with business objectives.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives in categories.
• Manage supply chain risks and ensure continuity.
• Stay updated on procurement trends and technologies.
• Mentor and guide junior buyers as part of the team.

Skills

Strategic sourcing

Negotiation

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

ERP systems

Procurement software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the agricultural and mining supply sector, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Category Buyer for their operations in Upington, Northern Cape. This role is responsible for managing specific procurement categories, developing sourcing strategies, and leading negotiations with key suppliers. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in their assigned categories, a strong understanding of market dynamics, and a proven ability to drive cost savings and improve supply chain performance. This position offers a Hybrid working arrangement, allowing for a blend of essential on-site collaboration and the flexibility of remote work. You will be instrumental in ensuring the efficient and cost-effective procurement of goods and services vital to our client's business in the Northern Cape region. Your strategic input will shape procurement decisions and contribute significantly to the company's bottom line. This is a leadership opportunity within a critical industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for assigned procurement areas.
• Conduct thorough market analysis, identify key suppliers, and lead complex sourcing events.
• Negotiate high-value contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers to achieve optimal cost savings and value.
• Manage and develop strategic relationships with key suppliers, fostering collaboration and innovation.
• Monitor category performance against budgets, KPIs, and service level agreements.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including operations and finance, to align procurement activities with business objectives.
• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives within assigned categories.
• Manage risks within the supply chain and ensure supply continuity.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in procurement and category management.
• Mentor and guide junior buyers as part of the procurement team.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of progressive experience in procurement, sourcing, or category management, with a proven focus on key categories.
• Demonstrated success in strategic sourcing, negotiation, and contract management, particularly in agricultural or mining-related sectors.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in advanced procurement software, ERP systems, and data analysis tools.
• Experience working within a Hybrid model and managing responsibilities across remote and on-site settings.
• Deep understanding of supply chain risks and mitigation strategies.
• Reside in or be willing to relocate to the vicinity of Upington, Northern Cape for the on-site components of the role.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive executive salary, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance. This Hybrid role provides a flexible working environment. Opportunities for professional development and career advancement are excellent. Employees enjoy generous annual leave and a supportive company culture in the heart of the Northern Cape . Join a leading company and make a significant impact on its strategic procurement operations in Upington .