Import Buyer

Location Cape Town
Discipline: Supply Chain Management
Job type: Permanent
Contact name: Erika Reeves

Contact email: erika@networkersint.co.za
Job ref: 45624
Published: about 3 hours ago
Overview

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in sourcing, purchasing, and managing imported products while ensuring cost-effective procurement and timely delivery. This position requires a proactive individual with strong negotiation skills, a deep understanding of international trade, and the ability to manage complex supply chain processes.

Responsibilities
  • Sourcing and negotiating with international suppliers to secure competitive pricing and favorable payment terms.

  • Placing and managing purchase orders with overseas suppliers.

  • Monitoring stock levels and planning imports based on sales forecasts.

  • Coordinating freight bookings and shipments with freight forwarders to ensure timely delivery.

  • Handling customs documentation and resolving import-related queries.

  • Tracking shipments and managing container Estimated Time of Arrival (ETAs).

  • Collaborating with warehouse and inventory teams to ensure smooth receipt of goods.

  • Maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and evaluating their performance regularly.

  • Monitoring landed costs and ensuring pricing accuracy.

  • Identifying opportunities to reduce costs and improve supply chain efficiency.

Qualifications
  • A minimum of 3–5 years of experience in procurement or import buying.

  • Proven experience working with international suppliers.

  • A solid understanding of freight, customs documentation, and logistics processes.

  • Strong negotiation and analytical skills.

  • Proficiency in ERP or inventory management systems.

  • Excellent organizational and time management abilities.

  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

Key Performance Indicators 
  • Purchase price variance compared to budget.

  • Supplier on-time delivery performance.

  • Stock availability and minimization of stock-out levels.

  • Accuracy of landed costs.

  • Timeliness of container deliveries.

  • Cost savings achieved through effective negotiation.

  • Management of supplier lead times.

  • Improvement in inventory turnover.

If you are a results-driven professional with a passion for procurement and supply chain management, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.