Assistant Purchasing Manager; Mechanical

Reference:11201 AV

Consultant:Anneke Viviers

Job Description:

• Support the Purchasing Manager with the procurement of raw materials, engineering spares, consumables, equipment, and services.
• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers to ensure cost-effective purchasing and reliable supply.
• Process purchase orders and monitor deliveries to ensure uninterrupted production.
• Assist with supplier relationship management, contract negotiations, and performance evaluations.
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with stores, production, and engineering teams to ensure material availability.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and support procurement budgeting and expenditure control.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies and relevant legislation.
• Prepare procurement reports, maintain supplier records, and support audit requirements.
• Supervise and support procurement staff, acting on behalf of the Purchasing Manager when required.

Qualifications:

• Matric (Grade 12).
• Diploma in Purchasing, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Procurement, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years' procurement or purchasing experience.
• Minimum 2 years' experience in a supervisory or senior buyer role.
• Experience in a manufacturing, engineering, mining, steel, or heavy industrial environment.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Syspro, Sage, Oracle, or similar) and advanced Microsoft Excel.
• Strong knowledge of procurement, supplier management, inventory control, and contract negotiation.
• Excellent leadership, analytical, organisational, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.