Johannesburg: Buyer posted by The Staff Connection

About the Role

The Staff Connection is seeking an experienced Buyer to join our team in Johannesburg. The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing and purchasing products and materials required for operations, ensuring stock levels meet operational and customer demand. This role requires a strong understanding of procurement processes, inventory management, and market trends.

Key Responsibilities

• Purchasing Inventory: Source and purchase products and materials required for operations, ensuring stock levels meet operational and customer demand.
• International Procurement: Source products from global suppliers, managing international purchasing processes, supplier negotiations, and logistics coordination.
• Supplier Management: Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules while building and maintaining strong supplier relationships.
• Quality Control: Ensure all purchased products meet company quality standards and specifications.
• Cost Management: Monitor purchasing costs and identify opportunities to optimise expenditure and improve margins.
• Order Management: Create and process purchase orders, track shipments, and ensure timely delivery of goods.
• Market Research: Stay informed on market trends, product developments, and potential suppliers to maintain a competitive product offering.
• Inventory Management: Work closely with the stock control department to ensure optimal inventory levels aligned with sales forecasts.
• Reporting & Analysis: Analyse purchasing data, track trends, and prepare reports to support strategic procurement decisions.

Knowledge & Abilities

• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build and maintain supplier relationships.
• Solid understanding of procurement processes and inventory management.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret purchasing trends and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in procurement software and MS Office.
• Strong background in cost management, market research, and data analysis to drive procurement strategies.

Minimum Requirements

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Business Administration, or a related field (Diploma or Degree).
• International buying experience is a prerequisite.
• Minimum 2+ years’ experience in a buying or purchasing role, ideally within the electrical, industrial, or manufacturing sectors.
• Proven track record in supplier negotiations, pricing management, and ensuring timely delivery of goods.
• Additional certifications in procurement or inventory management will be advantageous.