Technical Buyer

Top Recruitment; Durban; On-site; ZAR 450 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking an experienced buyer in Durban to handle procurement of packaging materials and machinery. The ideal candidate will have at least 7 years of experience, strong supplier management skills, and Syspro knowledge. This role offers an annual bonus and a provident fund.

Benefits

Annual bonus

Provident fund

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of experience working as a buyer, preferably in the packaging industry.
• Ability to identify machine parts and factory requirements.
• Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate suppliers of packaging materials and machinery.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing with suppliers.
• Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers.
• Monitor supplier performance and address issues.
• Support implementation of new packaging technology.

Skills

Supplier Management

Negotiation

Technical Evaluation

Quality Assurance

Cost Management

Education

Grade 12

Tools

Syspro

Job description

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Sourcing & Procurement: Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers of packaging materials, machinery, and consumables. Source cost‑effective solutions while ensuring quality standards are met. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the South African packaging market and global trends. Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing with suppliers to achieve favorable agreements.

Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers. Monitor supplier performance, including quality, delivery timelines, and service standards. Address and resolve supplier‑related issues such as delays, defects, or compliance matters. Evaluate new suppliers to expand sourcing options.

Technical Evaluation: Review technical specifications for packaging materials and machinery. Collaborate with production, quality, and R&D teams to ensure purchased items meet operational requirements. Ensure materials comply with local regulations (e.g., SANS standards, South African food safety requirements if applicable).

Support implementation of new packaging technology or innovations. Cost & Inventory Management: Analyze total cost of ownership, including transport, storage, and wastage. Optimize inventory levels to balance production needs and reduce overstock. Track procurement budgets and report on savings and efficiency initiatives.

Quality Assurance & Compliance: Ensure packaging materials meet internal quality standards. Verify supplier compliance with industry standards, certifications, and South African regulations. Conduct periodic audits or site visits to supplier facilities if required.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Communication: Work closely with design, production, logistics, and finance teams to align procurement strategy with operational needs. Provide procurement insights to management for decision‑making. Support cross‑functional projects, e.g., product launches or packaging redesigns.

Reporting & Documentation: Maintain accurate procurement records, contracts, and supplier evaluations. Prepare monthly/quarterly reports on procurement activities, cost savings, and supplier performance. Track key performance indicators (KPIs) for procurement efficiency.

REQUIREMENTS

Grade 12. Have a minimum of 7 years of experience working as a buyer (packaging industry an added advantage). Be able to identify machine parts and factory requirements. Able to work independently. Have Syspro experience. Have a valid driver's licence and own reliable transport. Preference will be given to African male / female and disabled candidates in accordance with EE policies.

COMPENSATION

• Annual bonus (at the discretion of management) + provident fund