Procurement Specialist (Buyer)

The Procurement Specialist is responsible for awarding purchasing contracts based on cost, quality, and delivery requirements for assigned commodities. The role involves developing procurement strategies, optimizing vendor relationships, and ensuring compliant, cost-effective sourcing practices. The position requires strong analytical, negotiation, and coordination skills to support overall business objectives.

Major Duties & Responsibilities

• Support the Strategic Sourcing Manager in managing the product life cycle for assigned commodities.
  
• Work closely with the Assistant Buyer to execute purchasing contracts.
  
• Conduct commodity analysis and provide strategic recommendations based on market trends.
  
• Manage RFQs with suppliers for assigned commodities.
  
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions to achieve cost optimization.
  
• Recommend improved and more economical products as needed.
  
• Monitor and evaluate vendor performance; prepare performance reports and initiate corrective actions.
  
• Identify, research, and qualify new suppliers.
  
• Troubleshoot vendor and supply chain issues with effective problem-solving strategies.
  
• Manage multiple projects by prioritizing deadlines and coordinating information flow.
  
• Use computer applications for database management, reporting, and tracking.
  
• Serve as a primary liaison between internal and external stakeholders.
  
• Train new staff and contribute to committees or teamwork activities.
  
• Participate actively in continuous improvement initiatives.
  
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
  

Job-Specific Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and adherence to instructions.
  
• Ability to stay organized and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
  
• Capable of working independently and as part of a team.
  
• Goal-oriented with strong time-management skills.
  
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  
• Professional demeanor and ability to represent the organisation positively.
  
• Proactive approach to identifying and managing challenges.
  
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
  

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
  
• Minimum 5 years of procurement or purchasing experience.
  
• Strong understanding of purchasing processes, sourcing techniques, and vendor management.
  

Physical Requirements

• Occasional bending and twisting.
  
• Ability to lift 10–20 pounds occasionally; heavier loads periodically.
  

Travel Requirement

• Approximately 10% travel.