Procurement Associate

Role Overview

This procurement operations role sits within a central purchasing team and handles the day-to-day buying activities that keep internal departments supplied with quality goods and services. You will move orders from initiation through delivery, chase suppliers, verify documentation, and support contract compliance, ensuring every purchase follows the organisation's procurement policies. The role matters because it directly influences cost control, supplier reliability, and operational continuity across all user units.

Key Responsibilities

• Raise and allocate local purchase orders in the procurement system, ensuring every request from user units is processed promptly and LPOs are issued within required timelines.
• Monitor outstanding orders and proactively follow up with suppliers to secure delivery according to agreed lead times, escalating potential delays before they affect operations.
• Verify order details—including item specifications, quantities, prices, shipping information, and delivery dates—so purchase orders are accurate and complete before authorisation.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders such as stores, quality teams, and requesting departments to arrange timely inspections of delivered goods and confirm they meet quality and specification requirements.
• Research best practices in contract management and draft improvement proposals for adoption after management approval.
• Track supplier performance against contract terms, maintain compliance records, and report on delivery and service-level outcomes to support assurance activities.
• Work directly with suppliers to resolve discrepancies, manage delivery disputes, and build positive working relationships that support smooth order fulfilment.
• Keep procurement documentation accurate, complete, and well-organised to support internal reporting, audits, and traceability requirements.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Purchasing and Supplies or a related discipline from a recognised institution. A professional qualification in Supplies Management is an added advantage.
• Experience: At least one year of practical experience in procurement or supplies management.
• Problem-solving: Demonstrated ability to independently resolve complex procurement issues in a timely and sensible manner.
• Contract expertise: Ability to draft, write, and negotiate vendor contracts and agreements with confidence.
• Communication: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills for liaising with internal users and external suppliers.
• Organisation: Strong planning and organisational skills to manage multiple orders, deadlines, and priorities simultaneously.
• Interpersonal skills: Proven ability to build cooperative relationships with colleagues and vendors, with well-developed negotiating skills.
• Integrity: High level of professional integrity and ethical conduct when handling procurement information and supplier interactions.