Buyer - Supply Chain Management (2280) at Nelson Mandela University

CORE PURPOSE OF JOB

• To ensure the efficient operation of the Procurement Department by adhering to the University's Supply Chain Policy and established Policies and Procedures. This includes sourcing and purchasing goods and services at optimal quality, cost, and delivery timelines while maintaining strong vendor relationships, conducting market analysis, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with procurement regulations to support University’s objectives.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

• Oversee and procure the daily procurement of both defined and non-defined items.
• Administer the procurement process in accordance with the Request for Quotation (RFQ) procedure.
• Execute procurement activities for capital purchases, ensuring compliance with procurement policies.
• Act as a liaison between suppliers and end-users to facilitate seamless procurement operations.
• Monitor and manage outstanding procurement commitments to ensure timely fulfillment.
• Perform adhoc procurement-related tasks as required to support departmental objectives.
• Oversee and maintain PURCO contracts to ensure alignment with university procurement strategies.
• Must have in-depth knowledge and expertise in tender administration processes.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Maintain an efficient purchasing office by ensuring all procurement activities align with university policies, promoting transparency, and streamlining processes to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Identify and rectify unauthorized transactions by implementing strict monitoring controls, reviewing purchase activities regularly, and taking corrective action to ensure compliance with financial and procurement regulations.
• Ensure optimal value for money in procurement by conducting market research, negotiating favourable terms with suppliers, and evaluating cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality standards for Nelson Mandela University.
• Promote cost-effective purchasing practices by analysing purchasing trends, optimizing supplier relationships, and implementing strategic sourcing methods to reduce unnecessary expenditures.
• Oversee and manage the purchase order system by ensuring all orders are accurately processed, properly documented, and systematically tracked to maintain efficiency and prevent discrepancies.
• Support the orderly processing of creditor applications by verifying supplier details, ensuring timely approvals, and maintaining accurate financial records to facilitate seamless payment processes.
• Ensure budgets are effectively utilised within the relevant financial year by monitoring expenditure, forecasting procurement needs, and implementing controls to prevent budget overruns or underutilisation.
• Uphold good governance within the Procurement section by enforcing ethical procurement practices, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and fostering accountability to maintain the integrity of procurement operations.
• Expertise in Tender Administration: Demonstrates in-depth knowledge and proficiency in managing tender processes, including preparation, evaluation, compliance, and contract awarding in line with procurement regulations and best practices.

REQUIREMENTS

• Matric (M + 3) NQF7 in any of the below:
• Supply Chain Management
• Business Management
• Logistics/Purchasing
• Operations Management
• Public Financial Management
• Public Management/ Public Administration
• 3 years’ relevant procurement experience including computer knowledge in a corporate environment and knowledge of PPPFA and B-BBEE legislations.  
• Applicants must meet all the above requirements in order to be considered for the post.

Closing date
30 Jan 2026 21:59