Senior Procurement Technical Specialist

Job Advert Summary

The Senior Procurement Technical Specialist bridges the gap between commercial purchasing and complex technical operations. This role serves as a critical liaison between cross-functional engineering, production and procurement. It is responsible for overseeing the purchasing and storage of MRO (Maintenance, Repairable and Operations) spares. It will source specialised high-value equipment, spares, and service solutions ensuring these are acquired on time within budget and to exact specification; evaluate vendors' technical capabilities; manage technical contracts; and ensure compliance with industry standards to optimise operational efficiency and achieve cost savings

Minimum Requirements

Diploma or Degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field

Cement or similar industry experience with a strong emphasis on procurement & stores management

Experience in a technical purchasing or procurement role

Experience using ERP systems (e.g., SAP, e-Procurement tools, and data analytics platforms)

Leading and managing teams

Duties and Responsibilities

Sourcing and Negotiation (40%)

• Assist internal departments in translating business needs into clear technical specifications, scope of work (SOW) documents, and cost models.
• Evaluate supplier capabilities, ensuring proposed technical solutions align with company standards.
• Lead localised plant sourcing negotiations.
• Drive cost-reduction initiatives through value analysis, strategic sourcing, and bulk purchasing strategies.
• Maintain executed contracts in a single repository.
• Monitor contract compliance & expiration dates.
• Provide process support to assure efficient and responsive purchasing.
• Enforce procurement policies, including preferred supplier usage and approvals.
• Enforce contract pricing compliance.
• Provide supplier performance management guidance and evaluation templates.
• Report on inventory performance data.
• Maintain optimal stock levels for critical components to prevent production delays, shortages, or excess obsolete inventory.
• Maintain OEM, critical and preferred supplier list

People Management (30%)

• Creating a culture of discipline: Manage the performance of direct reports and monitor adherence to expected standards.
• Managing and encouraging employee multi-skilling.
• Ensuring that staff are trained according to development plans.
• Creating an environment that embraces diversity.
• Ensuring open and effective communication.
• One on one coaching and mentoring sessions with employees.
• Monitor and report on Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) relating to actual costs versus budget.
• Effect continuous improvement in PPC processes and operations.
• Provide project support to various projects including cross function Projects.
• Offer guidance and support and if required take appropriate disciplinary action.
• Participate in the selection and appointment of new team members

Stakeholder Management (30 %)

• Develop, manage, and maintain strong relationships with suppliers.
• Coordinate the planning and procurement of materials in partnership with internal stakeholders.
• Communicate with stakeholders regarding new/ modified/ obsolete items and manage the system accordingly.
• Communicate to Management regarding stock levels, discrepancies, issues etc.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with key technology and equipment suppliers.
• Conduct performance reviews, track vendor metrics, and resolve complex supply or service issues.
• Liaise closely with internal stakeholders to ensure procurement and technical requirements are perfectly understood.