The Senior Buyer is responsible for leading strategic and tactical procurement activities across Pele’s projects, with a focus on EPC and O&M contracts. This role ensures the timely, cost-effective, and compliant acquisition of goods, works, and services, while managing supplier relationships, mitigating risks, and supporting internal governance and project delivery.
Requirements
EPC & O&M Strategy and Execution
- Lead EPC and O&M procurement strategy, managing interfaces with internal teams, external advisors, and legal counsel.
- Coordinate EPC RFP processes including site visits, bidder conferences, clarifications, and evaluations.
- Develop and implement adjudication methodologies covering technical, financial, commercial, health & safety, and other criteria.
- Assist in the selection and appointment of EPC and O&M contractors, including preferred and reserved bidders.
- Lead negotiations to finalize EPC and O&M contracts in execution-ready form.
- Support internal risk assessments and governance processes.
- Manage relationships and communication with bidders throughout the procurement lifecycle.
Project Procurement
- Procure construction contracts and equipment, ensuring alignment with project timelines and specifications.
- Maintain and build relationships with EPCs, OEMs, and major subcontractors.
- Negotiate direct and complex pricing agreements with OEMs, including performance guarantees and degradation terms.
- Design and implement bankable split contract structures, ensuring alignment with PPA guarantees and lender requirements.
- Run EPC and O&M procurement processes during bidding and financial close stages to achieve competitive and bankable pricing.
- Build and maintain databases of supplier pricing and procurement benchmarks.
- Contribute to EPC and O&M contract negotiations, including understanding PLDs, DLDs, and project timelines.
- Provide input into PPA negotiations to ensure alignment with contractual pass-throughs.
Supplier Management
- Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on performance, reliability, and strategic fit.
- Negotiate contracts and framework agreements, securing favourable terms and procurement conditions.
- Maintain strong supplier relationships and monitor performance to ensure quality and reliability.
Procurement Process Management
- Oversee purchasing activities including requisitions, purchase orders, and delivery tracking.
- Ensure timely and efficient procurement operations across all project phases.
Cost Control and Budget Management
- Monitor procurement spending and ensure alignment with project and company budgets.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement strategies to reduce procurement expenses.
Compliance and Risk Management
- Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, procedures, and relevant legislation.
- Manage risks related to supply chain disruptions, price volatility, and supplier reliability.
Strategic Planning and Market Analysis
- Analyse market trends and supply chain dynamics to inform procurement strategies.
- Develop long-term procurement plans aligned with Pele’s business objectives.
Stakeholder Communication
- Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including suppliers, project teams, and senior management.
- Provide regular updates and insights on procurement performance and strategic initiatives.
Data Analysis and Reporting
- Collect and analyse procurement data to support decision-making and continuous improvement.
- Generate reports on procurement performance, supplier metrics, and cost trends.
Team Development
- Build and develop the commercial and procurement team’s capacity.
- Facilitate skills transfer and implement structured training programs to enhance procurement expertise.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
- Minimum of 5–7 years’ experience in procurement, preferably in the energy or infrastructure sectors.
- Proven experience in EPC and O&M contract management and supplier negotiations.
- Strong understanding of South African energy regulations and procurement frameworks.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving.
- Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
- High attention to detail and organizational capability.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
- Proficiency in procurement systems and data analysis tools.
Competencies
Leadership Capabilities:
- Participative Leadership
- Planning & Organizing
- Monitoring & Measuring Cognitive Capabilities:
- Analysis & Attention to detail
- Problem Solving
- Critical thinking
Interpersonal Capabilities
- Assertive
- Methodical
- Drive & Action Oriented
- Flexibility
- Excellence & Quality Orientation