Technical / Precision Engineering Buyer - Manufacturing - Maitland, Cape town

My client, a leading and well-known manufacturing company based in Maitland Cape Town requires a competent and experienced Mechanical and Precision Engineering Buyer to join their team. this role is reporting to the Financial Executive.

The primary objective of this role is to drive an efficient, cost-effective, and compliant procurement process. This includes sourcing materials, negotiating contracts, and overseeing vendor relationships. The Procurement Manager will implement short- and long-term procurement strategies to support business goals, improve product quality and availability, and ensure adherence to company policies and government regulations.

Requirements:

National Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field

Mechanical Engineering background with machinist experience preferred

5+ Years of Procurement Management experience in a technical or mechanical environment, preferably within the precision engineering industry 5+ Years of experience in Material Handling and Inventory Management Languages:

Ability to read and interpret Technical drawings in highly beneficial

Proficiency in English (written and verbal)

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Strong negotiation skills with an in-depth understanding of market trends and the ability to secure the best price agreements

Effective communicator (verbal and written) with solid interpersonal and conflict resolution skills, able to interface with cross-functional teams

Results-oriented, self-motivated with excellent initiative and problem-solving skills

Team player with proven ability to thrive in a complex environment KNOWLEDGE:

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Power Point and MS Project).

Knowledge of company ERP system and other company systems

Knowledge and understanding of product manufactured and technologies employed

Technical Knowledge of machinery, equipment, and materials.

TECHNICAL SKILLS :

Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, MS Project)

Advanced knowledge of ERP systems and online purchasing and inventory management systems, including standard costing principles

Thorough understanding of technical specifications, machinery, equipment within the industry, and sourcing requirements

Strong administrative, planning, and organisational skills with attention to detail

Knowledge of Quality, Price, and Timing standards crucial to procurement success

General:

SA Citizens only

Must be Criminal Clear

Must be Credit Clear

Must reside in the greater Cape town area or be willing to relocate

Duties:

Strategic Procurement and Sourcing

Develop and implement procurement strategies to enhance cost-effectiveness, product quality, and supplier reliability.

Source and qualify suppliers both locally and internationally, focusing on optimising cost and quality through alternative suppliers.

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the entire procurement process, market trends, and best price practices to ensure the business remains competitive.

Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and recommend cost-saving initiatives. Supplier and Contract Management

Build and maintain strategic supplier partnerships, negotiating terms to secure favourable pricing, quality, alternative suppliers and service agreements.

Conduct supplier audits and manage Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) to align supplier capabilities with business needs.

Lead initiatives to improve operational effectiveness and propose methods for continuous process improvement.

Monitor and evaluate suppliers based on cost, quality, service, reliability, and compliance, maintaining a detailed supplier database with segmentation, BBBEE compliance, and performance scores. Inventory and Cost Management

Collaborate with stakeholders to prepare budgets, including capital expenditure, operational expenses, and cost savings targets.

Manage and optimise inventory levels by understanding minimum order quantities and safety stock levels to prevent stock-outs while maintaining efficient use of company resources.

Work closely with the Finance team to control and monitor price variances and ensure alignment between budget and resource goals. Process Improvement and Compliance

Oversee and enhance administrative systems, including ERP, ensuring Master Data updates for optimal purchasing, stock management, and order processes.

Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies and government regulations, obtaining necessary authorisations and documentation for all purchases.