Head of Procurement

SUMMARY:
Head of Procurement – Mining Industry
Middelburg Mpumalanga

Location: Middelburg or Witbank, Mpumalanga, South Africa (Local candidates preferred)
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Reports To: Chief Operating Officer / Managing Director
Salary: Competitive market-related package (aligned with mining sector executive roles)

Job Summary
A leading mining company based in Middelburg/Witbank is seeking a highly skilled and strategic Head of Procurement to oversee the full procurement value chain – from sourcing and contract negotiation to supplier relationship management and digital transformation. This is a high-impact leadership position requiring strategic oversight, operational execution, and continuous improvement to ensure cost efficiency, compliance, and supply chain stability.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Procurement Leadership
- Develop, implement, and manage company-wide procurement strategies aligned with the business’s operational and growth objectives.
- Translate mining project requirements into robust sourcing and supply strategies.
- Lead supplier segmentation, risk management, and long-term procurement planning.
- Sourcing, Negotiation & Vendor Management
- Identify, qualify, and develop strategic suppliers for equipment, services, and materials.
- Lead negotiations to ensure optimal pricing, quality, and delivery terms.
- Manage supplier performance, conduct evaluations, and drive supplier development.

Cost Optimization & Spend Management
- Oversee total procurement spend, conduct cost analysis, and drive savings initiatives.
- Implement controls to eliminate waste, ensure value-for-money, and improve working capital.
- Champion the integration of cost-efficiency with sustainability in supply strategies.
- Governance, Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure all procurement activities adhere to internal policies and external legal/regulatory frameworks (e.g., B-BBEE, environmental standards, and safety laws).
- Oversee contractual compliance, risk mitigation strategies, and audit readiness.
- Enforce the company’s lie detector policy and ensure the procurement department maintains the highest integrity and ethical standards.


Digital Procurement & Technology Integration
- Leverage ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Sage Pastel Evolution) for streamlined procurement processes.
- Drive digitization and the adoption of AI-driven procurement tools and platforms.
- Enable real-time spend tracking, forecasting, and predictive supply chain insights.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with departments such as Finance, Engineering, Operations, and Projects to ensure alignment between procurement strategy and business goals.
- Participate in executive and project planning meetings, offering procurement guidance and strategic insight.

Leadership & People Development
- Lead and mentor procurement teams across multiple locations.
- Foster a high-performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Drive talent development, succession planning, and training aligned with evolving supply chain needs.

Qualifications & Experience
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Procurement, or Business. A post-graduate qualification (MBA or CIPS certification) is highly advantageous.
- Experience: 8–15 years in procurement, with at least 5 years in a senior or head of procurement role within the mining or heavy industrial sector.
- Proven success in managing large procurement budgets, strategic sourcing, and supplier negotiations.
- Familiarity with large-scale CAPEX procurement and long-term mining service contracts.


Technical Skills
- Proficiency in ERP and procurement systems such as SAP, Oracle, or Sage Pastel Evolution.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and data analysis/reporting skills.
- Exposure to e-procurement platforms, AI tools, and digital transformation in procurement.
- Understanding of commodity markets, mining-specific supply chain requirements, and local/international logistics.

Core Competencies & Attributes
- Efficiency-Focused: Committed to streamlining procurement functions for cost savings and speed.
- Energetic & Driven: Passionate about performance, delivery, and operational excellence.
- Task-Oriented: Able to manage and deliver on complex procurement projects to tight deadlines.
- Strategic Thinker: Combines day-to-day tactical insight with long-term vision.
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead diverse procurement teams, resolve conflict, and inspire accountability.
Integrity: Must be trustworthy, loyal, and committed to upholding ethical procurement practices.
- Adaptable: Willing and able to work long hours, travel frequently, and manage pressure with composure.
- AI-Ready: Open to evolving with technology and using data-driven tools to inform decisions.


Additional Requirements
- Valid driver’s license is required; own transport is advantageous.
- Must have no criminal record and no adverse media exposure.
- Willingness to undergo polygraph testing in accordance with company policy.
- Prepared to work extended hours and weekends when business needs demand.
- Willing to travel between company sites and supplier locations when required.

Remuneration
- Salary Range: R1.1 million – R1.8 million per annum (depending on experience and qualifications)
- Includes benefits such as performance-based bonuses, fuel/travel allowance, medical aid, and retirement contributions
- Designed to reward strategic value, leadership, and procurement innovation