Procurement Buyer

PROCUREMENT BUYER in Metal Industry

MAIN PUROSE:
To efficiently manage the procurement of materials and services, maintain optimised inventory levels, oversee logistics requirements, and coordinate with project teams for timely and cost-effective delivery of resources. The role ensures alignment between supplier management, internal project schedules, and overall production demands, contributing to organizational profitability and customer satisfaction. ACCOUNTABILITIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Procurement (Material Sourcing & Supplier Management)

• Identify, evaluate, negotiate and select suppliers for raw materials (e.g., steel, aluminium, glass), fixings/consumables, and subcontracted services (e.g., laser cutting, galvanizing).

• Make use of Nesting Optimizer to determine material to be ordered.

• Sources project-specific materials based on specifications from the Project Manager & Draughtsman.

• Establish and maintain cost-effective, quality-focused supplier relationships.

• Ensure procurement aligns with project requirements (buying per project) and manage preferred supplier contracts for cost stability.

• Tracks and manages open orders to avoid delays.

• Monitor supplier performance (on-time delivery, quality, pricing) and implement corrective actions where necessary.

Purchase Order Management

• Prepares and processes purchase orders (POs) for approved materials.

• Ensures accurate documentation (price, quantity, specifications).

• Coordinates purchase approvals from Procurement Manager or Project Manager.

• Tracks and manages open orders to avoid delays.

Inventory & Stores Management

• Oversee the receipt, storage, and issuance of materials, fixings, and consumables.

• Monitors supplier delivery schedules and follows up on late shipments.

• Track stock levels per project to prevent over-ordering or shortages.

• Implement and maintain an inventory control system (SAGE) for real-time stock visibility.

• Ensure proper labelling, handling, and preservation of materials within designated storage areas.

Logistics & Transport

• Plan and manage the movement of materials from suppliers to the workshop and from the workshop to site.

• Coordinates with the Project Team to ensure materials are transported on time.

• Organise transportation (internal fleet or third-party providers) and plan routes to optimize cost and time.

• Ensure compliance with safety regulations for loading/unloading, handling, and transportation of materials.

• Coordinate just-in-time (JIT) deliveries to reduce storage costs and align with production schedules.

Reporting & Record-Keeping

• Maintains detailed procurement records (quotes, purchase orders, supplier agreements).
• Provides weekly procurement status reports to Managers.
• Analyses spending data to help improve purchasing strategies.

Project Coordination & Demand Planning

• Collaborate with Project Managers, Draughting, and Workshop teams to forecast material needs based on project timelines.

• Adjust procurement and inventory plans according to changes in project requirements or schedules.

• Monitor lead times to prevent delays and proactively address any material shortages.

• Ensure seamless alignment between procurement, production, and installation activities.

COMPETENCIES & MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Working conditions

• Workshop Environment: The role is primarily based in a office setting.
• Exposure to Industrial Environments: Periodic exposure to noise, heavy machinery, and other typical workshop hazards; PPE usage required as per company policy.

Disability status

• Physical Requirements: Role requires movement between office, workshop, and site. Some lifting of documents or small parts may be necessary. Individuals with mobility considerations may require reasonable accommodations.

Knowledge, skills, and qualifications

• Education: Certificate / Diploma (NQF Level 5-6) in Procurement and Supply Chain Management or Logistics or Supply Chain Management or Purchasing & Supply Chain Management
• Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years in procurement, logistics, or supply chain roles—preferably in a metal fabrication or construction environment.
• Technical Knowledge: Understanding of raw materials (steel, aluminium, etc.), fixings/consumables, and subcontract processes (e.g., laser cutting, galvanizing). Familiarity with inventory control systems (SAGA) and procurement software.
• Financial Acumen: Ability to analyse supplier quotes, and manage budgets.
• Software Skills: Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word), Nesting Optimizer and any specialised procurement/inventory software.
• Communication: Strong negotiation and vendor management skills. Excellent communication and coordination with internal teams (Project, Workshop) and external stakeholders (suppliers, transporters).

Functional Competencies

• Procurement Management: Ability to negotiate contracts, ensure quality, and maintain supplier relationships.
• Inventory Control: Skilled in managing stock levels, implementing tracking systems, and reducing waste.
• Logistics Coordination: Competent in route planning, scheduling, and handling freight arrangements.
• Project Collaboration: Adept at working with cross-functional teams to align materials with project timelines.

Personal attributes / Behavioural competencies

• Attention to Detail: Maintains accurate records and carefully monitors supplier performance and stock levels.
• Problem-Solving: Quickly identifies procurement or logistics issues and formulates effective solutions.
• Adaptability: Able to adjust plans based on changing project needs or supplier constraints.
• Teamwork & Communication: Works well with colleagues and communicates effectively across departments.
• Integrity & Compliance: Adheres to ethical procurement standards and company policies.

For more information please contact: Lidia Meyer