MANAGER: PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACT MANAGEMENT

• Demand Planning: Collaborating with various departments and stakeholders to understand their requirements and forecast demand for goods and services. Analysing historical data, market trends, and business needs to develop accurate demand forecasts and plans.
• Strategic Sourcing: Developing and executing procurement strategies that align with the organization’s goals and objectives. Evaluating potential suppliers and negotiating contracts to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery of goods and services. Identifying opportunities to optimize sourcing processes and reduce costs.
• Contract Management: Managing the entire lifecycle of contracts, from drafting and negotiating to executing and monitoring. Ensuring that contracts comply with legal and regulatory requirements while mitigating risks and maximizing value for the organization. Monitoring contract performance, addressing issues, and overseeing contract renewals or terminations.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Developing and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and vendors. Collaborating with them to improve quality, delivery, and cost-efficiency. Conduct performance evaluations and hold regular meetings to address issues and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Demand Forecasting and Analysis: Using data analysis and forecasting techniques to accurately predict future demand for goods and services. Monitoring market trends, customer demands, and internal factors to ensure adequate supply and minimize inventory or stockouts.
• Cost Control and Budgeting: Managing procurement budgets and expenditures to ensure cost control and adherence to financial constraints. Implementing cost-saving initiatives, negotiating favourable pricing, and optimizing procurement processes to achieve cost efficiency.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, company policies, and ethical standards throughout the procurement and contract management processes. Identifying and mitigating risks associated with procurement activities and contract management.
• Continuous Improvement: Continuously reviewing and enhancing procurement, demand planning, and contract management processes and procedures.

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management / Purchasing / Logistics / Public Administration / Public Management or a related field.
• Five (5) to seven (7) years of progressive experience in Supply Chain Management, or similar roles with three (3) years at a supervisory level.
• Experience in end-to-end SCM lifecycle and proven track record of SCM process efficiencies and effectiveness.
• Implementation experience in PFMA and National Treasury regulations, Directives and Policies.
• A Postgraduate qualification in Business Administration or a related field will be advantageous.
• Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) or SAPICS will be advantageous.

Enquiries: Mr Velaphi Zikalala, [email protected]

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 22 JULY 2026

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance, competency/leadership assessments and preference will be given to designated groups (including people with disabilities) in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) and at least three contactable referees must be attached on the form.

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.