Introduction We are seeking a proactive and detail-focused Senior Buyer to support the sourcing and procurement of materials and services in Johannesburg. This role is ideal for a professional passionate about supply chain excellence within a manufacturing and rail-industry environment. This individual will manage 2-3 people Responsibilities · Review and action all purchasing requests that come from internal and external customers for accuracy, terminology, and specifications. · Determine if the current inventory quantities are sufficient for the request, ordering more materials when necessary. · Prepare purchase orders and send copies to suppliers and to the departments originating requests · Respond to customer and supplier inquiries about order status, changes or cancellations · Performing buying duties. · Contact suppliers to schedule or expedite deliveries and to resolve shortages, missed or late deliveries, and other problems. · Prepare, maintain, and review purchasing files, reports, and price lists. · Compare prices, specifications, and delivery dates to determine the best bid among potential suppliers. · Track the status of requisitions, contracts, and orders · Calculate the cost of orders and charge or forward invoices to the appropriate accounts. · Manage activities related to strategic or tactical purchasing, including material requirements planning. · Meet with suppliers to discuss performance metrics, to provide performance feedback, or to discuss production forecasts or changes. · Confer with supply chain planners to forecast demand or create supply plans that ensure the availability of material or products · Monitor forecasts and quotes to identify changes or to determine their effect on supply chain activities. · Negotiate prices and terms with suppliers, vendors or freight forwarders · Define performance metrics for measurement, comparison, or evaluation of supply chain factors, such as sales, marketing, finance, production or quality assurance · Implement new or improved supply chain processes · Design or implement supply chains that support business strategies adapted to changing market conditions, new business opportunities, or cost reduction strategies. Requirements and Skills · Diploma or bachelors degree in Procurement, Purchasing, Supply Chain Management, or related field. Strong understanding of end-to-end procurement processes and best practices. Proven experience working with international/overseas suppliers. Familiarity with coordinating logistics through freight forward companies. Working knowledge of import/export procedures and documentation. Experience using SAP. Work experience Minimum of 35 years relevant experience in procurement or sourcing within a manufacturing environment or industrial environment. Competencies Required · Ability to work as part of a team and independently. · Ability to work in a pressured environment. · Attention to Detail · Communication · Conflict management · Interpersonal skills · Problem solving · Results-driven