SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:
ENVIRONMENT: Our client is seeking a Regional Buyer who is responsible for the sourcing, buying, and supplier management of their sundry and non-core product items within their assigned region. This specialist role ensures the business can procure the right products at the right quality, cost, and service levels to satisfy customer-specific demands across retail stores and distribution centres. Reporting to the Regional Procurement Manager, the Regional Buyer supports the regional and national procurement strategy through effective category management, supplier sourcing, cost negotiation, and product range optimization with specific focus on non-core product lines. The role is critical to supporting profitable growth by ensuring stock availability, managing supplier relationships, and delivering commercial value through strategic buying decisions. DUTIES: Sourcing & Procurement Management • Source and procure sundry and non-core product items in line with approved supplier, pricing, and quality standards • Obtain quotations, evaluate supplier proposals, and negotiate commercial terms to achieve best value for the business • Identify opportunities for new product introductions, supplier consolidation, and cost savings across the regional portfolio • Manage effective replenishment for stock demand in the business relating to allocated portfolio Supplier Relationship & Performance Management • Manage assigned sundry and non-core vendors through effective sourcing, product selection, and service delivery oversight • Source and onboard suitable suppliers for non-core product requirements in line with quality, pricing, and service expectations • Monitor supplier performance against agreed service levels, delivery timelines, pricing, and product quality requirements • Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and supply agreements to improve gross margin and commercial value Stakeholder Coordination & Communication • Work closely with Retail and Commercial sales teams, operations, distribution centres, and finance teams to align buying decisions with demand and business priorities • Manage supplier communication on quotations, purchase orders, delivery schedules, shortages, and product-related issues • Escalate material supply, pricing, or quality concerns timeously and drive corrective action with suppliers and internal stakeholders • Support promotional activity, branch requirements, and ad hoc sourcing requests through proactive planning and supplier engagement Category Management & Product Optimization • Support regional and national procurement strategy through effective category management with focus on non-core product lines • Conduct product range optimization to ensure the right products are available to satisfy customer-specific demands • Identify market trends and sourcing opportunities to enhance product offerings and competitive positioning • Ensure compliance with procurement policies to support profitable growth within the region Data Management & Documentation • Maintain accurate supplier records, product information, and procurement documentation within • relevant systems • Track and report on supplier performance, cost savings, and procurement metrics • Ensure all procurement activities are properly documented and aligned with company policies and procedures • Utilize ERP and procurement systems effectively for quotations, purchase orders, and inventory management REQUIREMENTS: Education • Matric is essential for this role • A diploma or degree in Procurement, Supply Chain, Business Management, or a related field will be advantageous but is not essential • Professional certifications in procurement or supply chain management may also be beneficial where relevant Experience The role typically requires relevant experience in buying, procurement, sourcing, or supplier management within a retail, wholesale, or distribution environment • Experience working with sundry or non-core product categories in a multi-site or regional context is valuable • Exposure to retail and commercial distribution environments is particularly relevant given their client’s operational model Technical Skills • Procurement and Sourcing • Supplier Negotiation • Category Management • Cost Analysis and Margin Optimisation • Supplier Performance Management • Stock Management and Replenishment • Contract Negotiation Soft Skills • Commercial Acumen • Communication • Relationship Management • Problem-Solving • Analytical Thinking • Organisation and Planning • Attention to Detail Leadership Skills • Supplier Relationship Management • Stakeholder Collaboration Technology Skills • Advanced Microsoft Excel • ERP Systems
