Job Description

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