Buyer / Stock Controller at West Coast Personnel

• We are looking for a Buyer / Stock Controller to support procurement and inventory operations through efficient purchasing and rigorous stock control. This role is responsible for sourcing locally supplied chemicals, packaging, raw materials, and ingredients in a timely, cost-effective, and compliant manner, while ensuring accurate stock records, smooth goods receipting, and strong data integrity to maintain business continuity and service levels.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage end-to-end local procurement processes, including purchase order creation, supplier engagement, and delivery tracking aligned to demand and forecasts
• Maintain supplier relationships through ongoing communication, follow-ups, escalation of delays, and upkeep of pricing, quotes, and records
• Source and compare quotations to drive cost efficiency and support savings initiatives
• Process GRVs and perform PO, invoice, and delivery reconciliation, resolving discrepancies where required
• Monitor stock levels and usage trends to identify and mitigate risks such as overstocking, shortages, and expiry
• Maintain accurate procurement and stock data within ERP systems and supporting trackers
• Support stock optimisation initiatives, including managing slow-moving and at-risk inventory
• Assist with stocktakes, variance investigations, and implementation of corrective actions
• Track supplier performance, log issues, and support continuous improvement of supplier reliability
• Ensure compliance documentation (e.g., CoA, CoC, specifications) is complete and up to date
• Collaborate with warehouse, planning, finance, and procurement teams to ensure operational alignment
• Operational cadence (embedded across duties):
• Daily: PO processing, supplier follow-ups, receiving coordination, ERP updates
• Weekly: Open order and stock risk reviews, GRV/PO/invoice reconciliation, pricing updates, planning input
• Monthly: Stocktakes, variance analysis, supplier performance reviews, compliance checks, and cost-saving reviews

Qualifications and Experience

• Matric (essential)
• Diploma/Degree in Supply Chain, Procurement, or Logistics (preferred)
• 1–3 years’ experience in procurement or stock control (advantageous)
• Strong Excel skills; ERP system experience beneficial
• Understanding of supplier and quality documentation (advantageous)

Skills and Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Good communication and stakeholder management skills
• Analytical and problem-solving ability
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and prioritise effectively
• Proactive risk identification and business awareness