Procurement Buyer

Roles and responsibilities

The role sits within the Supply Management Department under Corporate Services and reports directly to the Senior Category Specialist.

We are looking for a passionate Procurement Buyer with a strong interest in optimizing procurement processes and supporting category management activities. You should also have experience in strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and proficiency in ERP systems like Oracle.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in executing category sourcing initiatives by gathering supply market data, preparing procurement documents, and managing supplier communications.
• Manage tactical sourcing and spot-buy activities, ensuring compliance with procurement policies and timely delivery.
• Evaluate suppliers, conduct negotiations, and recommend the best options based on value, quality, and service.
• Facilitate contract setups and complex purchase orders for strategic sourcing projects.
• Monitor procurement activities to ensure alignment with budgetary and operational goals.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand procurement requirements and develop sourcing strategies that meet business objectives.
• Analyze procurement data to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve supplier performance.
• Ensure accurate documentation and reporting of procurement activities to support audits and compliance reviews.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance procurement processes, tools, and systems.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience in procurement or category management, with 6 months to 3 years of specialized experience.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (preferably Oracle) and advanced Excel skills.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of industry-specific procurement practices is an advantage.

Desired candidate profile

. Negotiation Skills

• Ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers and vendors to obtain the best prices, terms, and conditions.
• Strong communication skills to ensure that both parties reach mutually beneficial agreements.
• Handling price adjustments, discounts, and contract terms while ensuring value for money.

2. Supply Chain Management

• Understanding the supply chain process and how procurement fits into the broader logistics, manufacturing, and inventory management systems.
• Coordinating with logistics and inventory teams to ensure timely delivery and stock levels.
• Ability to anticipate market trends and disruptions to ensure the smooth flow of goods and services.

3. Market Research and Analysis

• Researching potential suppliers, assessing their reliability, and evaluating their financial stability and product quality.
• Analyzing market trends, prices, and new products to ensure competitive sourcing decisions.
• Keeping up to date with industry developments and technological advancements that may affect procurement strategies.

4. Cost Management and Budgeting

• Creating and managing procurement budgets, ensuring that purchases align with organizational financial constraints.
• Identifying cost-saving opportunities while ensuring quality is not compromised.
• Managing supplier payments, invoicing, and keeping procurement costs within set limits.

5. Vendor Relationship Management

• Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, fostering collaboration and long-term partnerships.
• Ensuring that suppliers meet their delivery, quality, and compliance obligations.
• Managing any issues that arise with suppliers, such as delays, quality concerns, or discrepancies in delivery.

6. Contract Management

• Drafting and reviewing contracts to ensure that the terms and conditions are favorable and legally sound.
• Monitoring supplier performance to ensure adherence to contract terms.
• Handling contract renewals, extensions, or modifications as needed.

7. Communication Skills

• Clear and effective communication with suppliers, internal stakeholders, and teams.
• Ability to present procurement strategies, supplier performance, and market trends to management.
• Maintaining professionalism in all supplier interactions, even when negotiating challenging terms or resolving conflicts.

8. Attention to Detail

• Ensuring that all procurement documentation is accurate, including purchase orders, contracts, invoices, and delivery schedules.
• Reviewing product specifications and quality standards to ensure compliance with organizational requirements.
• Ensuring that deliveries match purchase orders in terms of quantity, quality, and specifications.