International Buyer - Frozen Commodities

IOEC is a South African exporter and international brand development company; specific to this role we market and export South African and other international frozen commodities. We work with selected and long-term supply partners to provide our customers with compelling, market-appropriate offerings of frozen poultry and fish. Founded in 1972, decades of experience assure the best possible quality, value and reliability of supply from IOEC to our customers.

PURPOSE OF ROLE

We are seeking an International Buyer who is an expert in frozen poultry and fish procurement from an export division to join our growing team in Morningside, Durban. This role requires someone with an extensive local and international network and product knowledge in the frozen commodities industry.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Procurement Expertise: Purchasing of frozen poultry and fish. Apply your industry knowledge to identify and source high-quality products from around the world. Purchasing / Procurement of international products with existing and new suppliers. International and local product sourcing of frozen commodities.
• Export Knowledge: Experienced in advising and executing export processes and regulations related to the sector.
• Network and Relationships: Leverage your wide network within the industry to establish successful partnerships with suppliers and distributors. Consistently maintain good working relationships between IOEC and its suppliers. Source, establish and maintain relationships with local and international suppliers. Attend Trade Fairs, local and international travel.
• Negotiation: Without compromising on quality, negotiate favorable terms with suppliers to ensure cost-effective procurement. Deal with claims and negotiate the best settlement for our clients. Price negotiations with suppliers.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills to effectively liaise with stakeholders across the supply chain. Compile and conduct reporting, presentations and implement systems. Report on the availability and range of product to our Business Development Managers.
• Market Research: Stay abreast of market trends, pricing fluctuations, and regulatory requirements in the sector. Development of the company’s’ product range. Helping to build and develop new brands for new markets.
• Supply Chain Management: Oversee the logistics of procurement, ensure timely delivery of goods. Maintain optimal inventory levels.

REQUIREMENTS:

Skills and experience:

• Expertise in Frozen Poultry and Fish Procurement: 5 years’ experience in international frozen commodities buying or Trading. Demonstrate extensive knowledge of frozen poultry and fish, quality standards, local South African and international suppliers.
• Specialized knowledge - Export:– 2-3 years’ experience in ocean and air exports to markets outside of Africa.
• A wide network within the poultry and fish industry, including suppliers, distributors, and other stakeholders.
• Negotiation skills: Strong negotiation skills to secure favorable terms with suppliers and optimize procurement costs.
• Computer literate in using online portals and Microsoft Office Suite.

Qualifications

• Matric certificate.
• Relevant tertiary qualification will be advantageous.

Personality Fit

• Strong negotiation skills. Relationship building skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• An ability to work independently and within a team structure.
• Ambitious, positive, and energetic. Solution driven, resourceful, proactive and assertive.
• Ability to handle high pressure situations, able to take calculated decisions.

Salary will be market related and dependent on experience.

If you believe you fulfil the above criteria required for the role, please feel free to email your updated CV through to hr@ioec.co.za

Please note that if you do not fulfil all the above requirements for the position your CV will not be considered.