Senior Purchasing Specialist

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 800,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus (performance-based)

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Flexible work

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Senior Purchasing Specialist to drive strategic sourcing and procurement excellence. The role focuses on cost optimization, supplier negotiations, and cross-functional collaboration to support operations.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years in purchasing, strong contract knowledge, and ERP system experience (SAP/Oracle). Based in or willing to relocate to Pietermaritzburg, this is a hands-on leadership position in a dynamic logistics

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or related field.
• 5+ years progressive purchasing/procurement experience with a proven track record.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of procurement software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Understanding of contract law and risk management principles.
• Proficiency in Excel for data analysis.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in logistics or manufacturing is advantageous.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans to identify cost-effective suppliers.
• Negotiate contract terms, pricing, and SLAs with suppliers.
• Conduct market analysis to stay ahead of trends and risks.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and monitor performance.
• Oversee procurement from requisition to payment in line with policies.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand procurement needs.
• Monitor inventory levels and forecast demand for essential materials.
• Identify cost savings and process improvements.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with ethical and regulatory standards.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Stakeholder management

Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

Tools

SAP

Oracle

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the supply chain and logistics sector, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Purchasing Specialist to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This role is critical in ensuring the efficient and cost-effective procurement of goods and services essential to our client's operations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of procurement best practices, market trends, and supplier relationship management. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a growing company and make a significant impact on their operational success. The position requires a proactive individual capable of navigating complex procurement challenges and driving value through strategic sourcing initiatives. We are looking for someone who is not just a buyer, but a true procurement strategist.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans to identify and secure cost-effective suppliers for a wide range of goods and services.
• Negotiate contract terms, pricing, and service level agreements with suppliers to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Conduct thorough market analysis to stay abreast of industry trends, pricing fluctuations, and potential supply chain risks.
• Manage and maintain strong relationships with existing suppliers, ensuring performance standards are met and opportunities for collaboration are explored.
• Oversee the entire procurement process from requisition to payment, ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across various departments to understand their procurement needs and provide expert advice.
• Monitor inventory levels and forecast demand to ensure timely replenishment of essential materials.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements within the procurement function.
• Ensure all procurement activities adhere to ethical standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in purchasing or procurement roles, with a proven track record of success.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• In-depth knowledge of procurement software and ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Excellent understanding of contract law and risk management principles.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data analysis.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in the logistics or manufacturing sector is highly advantageous.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a performance-based bonus structure.
• Employees benefit from comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement are readily available.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment, along with flexible working arrangements, contributes to a healthy work-life balance.
• Additional perks may include study assistance for relevant certifications and an annual leave allowance.