Overview

Our client has identified an opportunity for a Procurement & Inventory Specialist to join their management team at their distribution centre based on the East Rand (Johannesburg).

This is not simply an experienced buyer function – this role is best suited for an individual who is passionate about building a capable procurement function from the ground up and would like to contribute to the long-term development of the business. Balancing strategic thinking with practical execution will be an every day skill along with combining corporate-level commercial discipline, adaptability and a hands-on approach required in an evolving and demanding business landscape.

If you come from an environment that requires strong commercial discipline, supplier and category management, inventory control and high-volume product movement – then we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate should be able to:

1. align procurement activities with business objectives and growth plans

2. establish procurement processes, standards and reporting capability suitable for a growing business

3. identify and evaluate suitable suppliers and products

4. develop and maintain strategic supplier relationships

5. negotiate pricing, trading terms, settlement terms, rebates and promotional support

6. manage inventory performance and stock cover while protecting working capital

7. contribute to budgeting, forecasting and commercial planning

8. monitor sales, margin and product performance and make recommendations accordingly

9. identify new product and category opportunities

10. work collaboratively with sales, operations and finance functions

Must-Haves

Beyond technical capability the successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Integrity and accountability

• Commercial thinking

• Strong relationship-building ability

• A long-term mindset

• Curiosity and willingness to learn

• The ability to operate in a growing and evolving environment

• A desire to help build something meaningful rather than simply occupy a position

Industry experience in FMCG, wholesale, retail or distribution environments would be highly beneficial