Job Purpose

A strategic and hands-on Senior Buyer / Procurement Manager is sought to lead the procurement function within a high-volume, custom manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing, supplier negotiation, and material planning to support the seamless delivery of bespoke projects. This role requires strong procurement expertise, deep knowledge of shopfitting materials, and the ability to thrive under pressure while maintaining cost efficiency, quality, and timely delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement & Sourcing

• Develop and execute proactive procurement strategies aligned with production timelines, client deadlines, and cost objectives.

• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers locally and internationally to secure optimal value across quality, cost, delivery, and reliability.

• Monitor market trends, price fluctuations, and commodity risks, especially in timber, aluminium, and steel markets.

• Build and manage long-term supplier pipelines to support high-demand projects and reduce procurement bottlenecks.

Operational Procurement

• Manage the end-to-end procurement of:

  • Timber, board, laminates, and perspex

  • Aluminium extrusions and sheet metal

  • Glass, paint, powder coating, adhesives, and chemicals

  • Steel tube, steel sheet, and hardware (hinges, locks, runners, fasteners, etc.)

  • Consumables and shopfitting components

• Ensure all purchase orders are accurately raised, tracked, and fulfilled within lead times.

• Collaborate with production planners, project managers, and installation teams to forecast material needs and manage demand.

• Monitor stock levels and coordinate with warehouse teams to ensure critical item availability.

Supplier & Vendor Management

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with a vetted supplier base.

• Lead vendor evaluations and conduct routine performance audits based on quality, cost, and delivery.

• Resolve supplier disputes and non-conformance issues; implement corrective actions.

• Maintain and update the preferred supplier list with proper documentation and compliance metrics.

Cost Control & Reporting

• Lead cost reduction initiatives without compromising quality or project timelines.

• Monitor procurement spend, supplier performance, and report on KPIs monthly.

• Support budgeting, forecasting, and spend analysis for operational and strategic planning.

Compliance & Procurement Systems

• Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, ethical sourcing practices, and contractual obligations.

• Maintain accurate records, including supplier contracts, purchase orders, and correspondence.

• Drive ERP/MRP system usage for improved purchase tracking, reporting, and stock alignment.

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or Degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Logistics, or a related field.

• Minimum 10 years of procurement experience, preferably in shopfitting, furniture manufacturing, joinery, or light engineering.

• Proven experience managing high-value purchases and negotiating favourable supplier terms.

• Proficiency in ERP systems such as Syspro, SAP, Sage, or similar.

• Experience with both local and international sourcing.

Key Competencies & Skills

• Assertive and results-driven, with the ability to perform under pressure.

• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.

• Solid understanding of supply chain operations, manufacturing processes, and production planning.

• High attention to detail, particularly in documentation, cost control, and material specifications.

• Ability to interpret technical drawings and bills of materials (BOMs) is advantageous.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.