Buyer – Durban
Finance and Accounting ~ Production and Manufacturing ~ Supply Chain and Logistics
To provide comprehensive purchasing administration and procurement support, ensuring all goods and materials are delivered on time, meet specified quality standards, and are acquired at optimal cost.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Grade 12 / Matric (Mathematics advantageous); Degree or Diploma in Purchasing, Supply Chain, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of 5 years’ relevant operational experience as a Buyer.
- Advanced proficiency in Syspro; strong organization, delegation, and problem-solving capabilities.
- Superior negotiation skills, commercial insight, and a drive for cost efficiency.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication, presentation skills, and the ability to lead, coach, and motivate teams.
- Strong assertiveness and the ability to build and sustain key stakeholder and supplier relationships.
- Self-starter capable of working unsupervised, managing time effectively, adhering to standards, and delivering under pressure.
Key Performance Areas & Responsibilities
1. Supplier & Stock Management
- Maintain optimal inventory levels to safeguard business operations against supply chain risks.
- Monitor product availability and proactively communicate potential disruptions to management.
- Build and manage strategic, long-term supplier relationships using a professional and consistent approach.
2. Import & International Procurement
- Manage global supplier relationships and commercial agreements.
- Place forward orders and monitor stock levels to ensure alignment with demand forecasts.
- Oversee commercial terms, completion of shipping/import documentation, and processing of pre-payments.
3. Local Forecasting
- Analyze and forecast product usage and material requirements for all local suppliers.
- Share advanced forecasts with suppliers to align capacity and ensure supply security.
4. Cost Control & Negotiation
- Identify cost-saving opportunities, research alternatives, and present recommendations to management.
- Review, manage, and negotiate supplier price increases to minimize financial impact.
- Update and communicate forecast adjustments following cost and demand shifts.
5. Reporting & Administration
- Compile reports on supplier performance issues and collaborate with stakeholders to implement resolutions.
- Track, analyze, and report on price fluctuations and manage formal review processes.

