Technical Buyer

Top Recruitment (Pty) Ltd; Durban; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency seeks a Technical Buyer for a manufacturing group in Durban, requiring over 7 years of experience in procurement, particularly within the packaging industry. The role involves sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. Candidates should possess a Grade 12 education, Syspro experience, a valid driver's license, and the ability to work independently. The position offers a remuneration of R20 000 – R25 000 plus an annual bonus and provident fund.

Benefits

Annual bonus

Provident fund

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of experience as a buyer, preferably in the packaging industry.
• Ability to work independently and identify machine parts or factory requirements.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transport required.

Responsibilities

• Identify and select suppliers for packaging materials.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers to obtain favorable terms.
• Monitor supplier performance on quality and delivery timelines.
• Analyze total cost of ownership for procurement.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Skills

Supplier negotiation

Cost analysis

Quality assurance

Supplier performance monitoring

Education

Grade 12

Tools

Syspro

Job description

Manufacturing group are seeking a Technical Buyer for their operation in Mobeni. Applicants will need 7+ years experience in a similar role.

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 drivers licence and own reliable transport
• Preference will be given to African male / female and disabled candidates in accordance to EE policies

RUMUNERATION

R20 000 – R25 000 + annual bonus (at the discretion of management) + provident fund