Group Buyer (agriculture sector) VACANCYReports to: Head of FinanceRole Summary:Our client is an internationally established and vertically integrated group of entities involved inplant propagation, farming, packing and marketing of berries.They increasingly focussed on precision farming, using high-tech farming principles to driveyield, economic points of difference and decrease conventional risks associated with farming.This, together with the use of world-best plant varieties has ensured that they grown to be aworld class premium berry supplier across multiple continents.This new role is for a Group Buyer to lead, develop and implement purchasing strategies andefficient logistics of goods for multiple product lines within the businesses.
This will includesourcing and purchasing of goods and services, negotiating contracts and managing supplierrelationships.
The successful candidate will demonstrate strategic thinking, drive cost-efficientprocurement (incl.
preferential procurement in terms of the BEE codes) and ensure soundstock controls.Accordingly, a highly ethical, technically strong and driven individual with a high urgency index,who takes their work very personally and wants to leave their mark, is required to take on thisnew role.The role is based in Hermanus.
Must be willing to travel between farms on an ad hoc basis.Direct Reports:None initially, although the role may develop in future to include this reports and a purchasingteam.Personal Attributes:High energy, enthusiastic, ambitious and highly self-motivatedEmbraces and supports change processesHighly proactive and positive problem solver with demonstrable resourcefulnessExcellent interpersonal and time management skillsCommercially aware, forward thinkingExcellent communication skills, both verbal and writtenAbility to operate in an extremely dynamic environment, working to tight deadlinesDemonstrate meticulous attention to detail on ethical procurement and cost initiatives Key responsibilities:Supplier ManagementImplement purchasing strategy to meet the needs of company business operations andachieve effective purchasing goals including, among others things, acceptable servicelevels, cost effectiveness, product quality and cashflowAnalyze, interpret, and implement actions based on supplier performance reports coveringprice, lead time, and quality;Maintain records for price, lead time, and quality within company systems according toSOPsWork with QA engineer and line manager to understand, feedback to suppliers, and solveany quality or lead time problems which may arise;Ensure Supplier Agreements and Exclusivity Agreements are updated and signedaccording to company SOPs, where applicableDevelop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, leveraging partnerships todrive cost savings, quality improvements, and innovation.Order PlacementPlace orders to appropriate suppliers in line with the procurement policy and companyproduct requirement standardsConfirmation and communication of lead-times for delivery to farm staff, including FBMsEnsure delivery notes are appropriately received, signed off and delivered to financeFinance ReportingEnsuring excellent communication and reporting of expected payments on projects and/orlarge (>R500k) purchases to drive awareness and planning around cash allocationRelevant BEE reporting including target setting of the relevant preferential procurementscorecard items and tracking thereofSOP and ComplianceDevelop appropriate purchasing SOPs and ensure compliance with procurement policyStockDrive stock-holding working capital efficiencies through excellent understanding of productlead times and order timingAssist with accurate stock takes and understanding stock levels throughout the businessfor improved decision-makingGeneralConduct market research to identify potential suppliers, evaluate their capabilities, andnegotiate favourable terms and conditions.Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their requirements and developsourcing plans to meet their needsStay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and technological advancements toidentify opportunities for improvement and innovation.Collaborate with cross-functional teams to forecast demand, plan inventory levels, andensure timely availability of goods and services.Minimum requirements:Bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or relatedAt least 8 years' experience in the key responsibilities above with a proven track record ofeffective procurement at a senior levelStrong Excel and other MS application experience.
SharePoint, MS Teams helpfulGood understanding of preferential procurement scorecard itemsGood understanding of Incoterms and ability to understand customs tariff implications forvarious origin purchasesERP Experience, ideally with Microsoft Navision or BC365Strong knowledge of procurement principles, best practices, and market trends.Excellent negotiation, contract management, and vendor relationship management skills.Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze data and makeinformed decisions.Proficiency in procurement software systems and tools.Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projectssimultaneously.Understanding of legal, regulatory, and ethical standards related to procurement
