Our client, a leader in custom manufacturing for the retail and shopfitting industry, seeks a strategic and hands-on Senior Buyer / Procurement Manager to lead the procurement function across a high-volume, bespoke production environment. The successful candidate will drive sourcing, supplier negotiation, and material planning to support seamless project delivery. This role demands strong procurement expertise, deep knowledge of shopfitting materials, and the ability to thrive under pressure while maintaining cost efficiency, quality, and timely delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement & Sourcing

Develop and execute proactive procurement strategies aligned with production timelines, client deadlines, and cost objectives.
Source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers locally and internationally to secure optimal value across quality, cost, delivery, and reliability.
Stay ahead of market trends, price fluctuations, and commodity risks, particularly in timber, aluminium, and steel markets.
Build and manage long-term supplier pipelines to support high-demand projects and reduce procurement bottlenecks.

Operational Procurement

Manage the end-to-end procurement of:
o Timber, board, laminates, and Perspex
o Aluminium extrusions and sheet metal
o Glass, paint, powder coating, adhesives, and chemicals
o Steel tube, steel sheet, and hardware (hinges, locks, runners, fasteners, etc.)
o Consumables and shopfitting components
Ensure all purchase orders are accurately raised, tracked, and fulfilled within lead times.
Collaborate with production planners, project managers, and installation teams to forecast material needs and manage demand.
Monitor stock levels and work with warehouse staff to ensure critical item availability.

Supplier & Vendor Management

Develop and maintain strong relationships with a vetted supplier base.
Lead vendor evaluations and conduct routine performance audits across quality, cost, and delivery.
Handle supplier disputes, non-conformance resolutions, and implement corrective actions.
Maintain and update the preferred supplier list with documentation and compliance metrics.

Cost Control & Reporting

Lead cost reduction initiatives without compromising project timelines or quality standards.
Track procurement spends, supplier performance, and report on KPIs monthly.
Assist in budgeting, forecasting, and spend analysis for operational and strategic decision-making.

Compliance & Procurement Systems

Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, ethical sourcing practices, and contractual obligations.
Maintain precise records, including supplier contracts, POs, and correspondence.
Drive digitisation and efficiency through ERP/MRP systems for purchase tracking, reporting, and stock alignment.

Qualifications & Experience

Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Logistics, or a related discipline.
10+ years of procurement experience, ideally within shopfitting, furniture manufacturing, joinery, or light engineering.
Demonstrated experience managing high-value purchases and negotiating favourable terms 350 Active Suppliers. Procurement value R15M P/M.
Proficiency in ERP systems such as Syspro, SAP, Sage, or equivalent.
Experience sourcing from both local and international suppliers.

Key Competencies & Skills

Strong-willed, assertive personality with a proven ability to perform under pressure.
Skilled negotiator with excellent interpersonal and vendor management skills.
Deep understanding of supply chain, manufacturing processes, and production planning.
High attention to detail in documentation, cost tracking, and material specifications.
Ability to interpret technical drawings and bills of materials (BOMs) is advantageous.
Technically proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.