Senior Buyer

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