Procurement Buyer

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:

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

Knowledge, Skills & Experience:

1. Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related field.
2. 3-5 years of relevant experience in procurement or category management, with 6 months to 3 years of specialized experience.
3. Proficiency in ERP systems (preferably Oracle) and advanced Excel skills.
4. Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
5. Knowledge of industry-specific procurement practices is an advantage.

Negotiation Skills

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

Supply Chain Management

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

Market Research and Analysis

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

Cost Management and Budgeting

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

Vendor Relationship Management

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

Contract Management

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

Communication Skills

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

Attention to Detail

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