Cape Town: FRUIT BUYER posted by Indian Ocean Export Company

January 17, 2026 Jobs in Cape Peninsula

Indian Ocean Export Company

Western Cape

Operations

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a Fruit Buyer who is an expert in grapes, citrus or deciduous to join our growing team in Tyger valley, Cape Town. Are you passionate about fruits and well-versed in procurement processes, especially in the export domain? This role requires someone with an extensive network in the fruit industry.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement Expertise: Purchasing of grapes, deciduous and citrus fruit. Utilize your knowledge of fruit procurement to identify and source high-quality products from around the globe. Sourcing, establishing and maintaining relationships with new South African suppliers / farmers.
Network and Relationships: Leverage your wide network within the fruit industry to establish successful partnerships with suppliers and distributors. Consistently maintain good working relationships with between IOEC and its fruit suppliers.
Negotiation: Negotiate favorable terms with suppliers to ensure cost-effective procurement without compromising on quality. Dealing with claims and negotiating the best settlement for our clients. Price negotiations with growers and packhouses
Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively liaise with stakeholders across the supply chain. Reporting, presentations and implementing systems. Reporting on the availability and range of the fruit (and vegetables) to our Business Development Managers.
Market Research: Stay abreast of market trends, pricing fluctuations, and regulatory requirements in the fruit export sector. Implementation of seasonal programs.
Quality Assurance: Collaborate with quality control teams to ensure that all procured fruits meet our stringent quality standards. Quality control on farms, pack houses and cold rooms.
Supply Chain Management: Oversee the logistics of procurement, ensuring timely delivery of goods while maintaining optimal inventory levels.

Requirements

Expertise in Fruit Procurement: 5 years experience in grapes, citrus or deciduous procurement / buying fruit; specialty in grapes preferred. Demonstrate extensive knowledge of fruit seasonality, quality standards, local South African and international fruit growers and packhouses.
Export Knowledge: Proficiency in export processes and regulations related to the fruit trade.
A wide network within the fruit industry, including suppliers, distributors, and other stakeholders.
Negotiation Skills: Strong negotiation skills to secure favorable terms with suppliers and optimize procurement costs.
Computer literate, including online portals and Microsoft Office Suite.

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Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field, such as agriculture, business, or commerce.

Salary & Benefits

Salary will be market related and dependent on experience.

How to Apply

Click the green “Go Apply” button below to apply directly online with the employer.

About Operations Jobs in Western Cape

When it comes to Operations positions in the Western Cape, South Africa, one can expect a diverse and dynamic job market. Typically, operations roles involve managing day-to-day activities, ensuring efficiency, and implementing processes to achieve business objectives. Generally, these roles are found across various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and financial services sector.

Salary expectations for Operations positions in the Western Cape vary widely depending on factors such as experience, company size, and industry sector. Typically, salaries range from R500 000 to R1 million per annum, with common ranges falling between R600 000 and R800 000. However, it is essential to note that actual salaries may differ based on individual circumstances. Company size, for instance, can significantly impact salary scales, while experience in the field can also influence earning potential.

Common skills required for Operations positions include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, effective communication and collaboration skills, and attention to detail. Typically, a degree or diploma in a relevant field such as business administration, operations management, or supply chain management is preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and experience with project management tools are also highly valued.

Operations roles can be found across various industries, including financial services sector, technology industry, manufacturing sector, and more. In general, organizations seek candidates who can optimize processes, manage resources, and drive efficiency gains.

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Career development opportunities for Operations professionals in the Western Cape often involve taking on additional responsibilities, pursuing specialized training or certifications, and moving into leadership roles. Typically, career progression paths may include positions such as operations manager, business analyst, or supply chain specialist.

This information provides general career guidance. Actual salaries and requirements vary by employer.

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