Cape Town City Centre: Buyer – Ship Chandler Provisions Department

Job Title: Buyer Ship Chandler Provisions Department Location: Paarden Eiland, Cape Town Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: R18,000 R25,000 per month (depending on experience) Role Overview Our client, a reputable and fast-paced ship chandler operation, is seeking an experienced Buyer to join their Provisions Department. This is a senior-level role suited to a commercially minded professional with strong FMCG purchasing experience, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to operate efficiently under pressure and high transaction volumes. The successful candidate will play a key role in sourcing, pricing, ordering, and invoicing a wide variety of goods supplied to vessels, ensuring accuracy, competitive pricing, and timely delivery. Key Responsibilities Prepare accurate and competitive quotations for requested products Source and procure goods from approved suppliers Negotiate pricing, delivery timelines, and product availability Process purchase orders and track order status Handle invoicing for both customers and suppliers Monitor pricing fluctuations, including foreign currency impacts Maintain accurate purchasing and financial records Ensure stock and product availability align with client demands Liaise with internal teams and suppliers to resolve order or pricing discrepancies Work efficiently within high-pressure, deadline-driven environments Minimum Requirements Proven experience in a senior buying or procurement role within the FMCG sector Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, including basic formulas Ability to manage large product ranges and high-volume transactions Solid commercial acumen and negotiation skills Strong numerical and administrative accuracy Experience using accounting systems (Pastel 14 advantageous) Ability to multitask and perform effectively under pressure Advantageous Skills & Experience Experience in ship chandling, maritime supply, logistics, or wholesale distribution Knowledge of exchange rate calculations and foreign currency purchasing Supplier network within FMCG or provisions supply Exposure to international procurement environments Key Competencies High attention to detail Strong organisational and time management skills Problem-solving ability Professional communication skills Results-driven mindset Ability to prioritise urgent requests Ideal Candidate Profile The ideal candidate is commercially sharp, highly organised, and thrives in a fast-moving operational environment. They are confident working with numbers, comfortable managing multiple supplier relationships, and able to balance cost control with service delivery expectations.