Parts Analyst & Buyer

SUMMARY:
A leading automotive brand is seeking an experienced Parts Analyst & Buyer to drive parts forecasting, procurement excellence, and inventory optimisation for a national dealer network. This role is ideal for a commercially astute supply chain professional with strong analytical capability, outstanding supplier management skills, and an eye for long-term operational efficiency.

Role Overview
You will oversee demand planning, purchasing, and stock optimisation to ensure the highest levels of parts availability across South Africa. The position requires a balance of strategic forecasting, hands-on procurement, and proactive supply chain coordination — ensuring operational continuity and exceptional dealer support.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities

Parts Analysis & Forecasting

• Analyse historical trends, dealer demand, and market patterns to forecast parts requirements.
• Monitor stock movements and recommend adjustments to maintain optimal inventory levels.
• Identify fast-moving, slow-moving, and obsolete parts and implement corrective action plans.
• Compile monthly and quarterly demand reports for senior management.

• Place and manage purchase orders with local and international suppliers.
• Ensure lead-time adherence and track shipments to maintain continuity of supply.
• Negotiate commercial terms to achieve cost-effective, high-quality outcomes.
• Monitor currency fluctuations, shipping costs, and duties affecting landed cost.

• Maintain healthy stock levels to minimise backorders and lost sales.
• Provide clear procurement and delivery instructions to warehouse and logistics teams.
• Collaborate with logistics providers to resolve shipment delays and supply disruptions.
• Ensure compliance with OEM procurement and inventory policies.

• Prepare and manage KPIs, including fill rates, stock performance, aging analysis, and supplier delivery metrics.
• Track supplier performance and escalate non-conformance issues.
• Maintain accurate ERP data, pricing updates, and procurement documentation.

• Degree/Diploma in Supply Chain, Logistics, Procurement, or related field.
• 3–5 years’ experience in automotive parts procurement or supply chain (preferably OEM).
• Strong forecasting, analytical, and inventory management skills.
• Proven negotiation experience and supplier relationship management.
• Strong Excel capability and ERP system proficiency.
• Knowledge of import/export regulations and customs processes.
• Ability to work under pressure with high attention to detail.

• Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving capability.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong commercial acumen and financial awareness.
• Customer-focused mindset with commitment to service excellence.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across departments.

• A professional, supportive environment within a fast-growing automotive operation.
• Competitive remuneration.
• Opportunity to contribute to a national parts and procurement strategy.