Role: Buyer -Junior Officer
Location: Salem, Tamil Nadu
Job Summary
We are looking for an experienced and analytical Procurement Officer/Specialist to manage our end-to-end procurement operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for strategically sourcing high-value goods and services, optimizing procurement cycle times, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. You will play a critical role in managing supplier relationships, analyzing performance data, and driving continuous process improvements to deliver value and efficiency. This role requires in-depth knowledge of various procurement modes, including overseas purchasing, and hands-on experience with SAP and GeM portals.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Sourcing & Tendering:
Independently manage the entire Request for Quotation (RFQ) process for high-value procurement of goods, services, Annual Rate Contracts (ARC), and Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC).
Develop and execute appropriate procurement strategies (e.g., Proprietary, Limited Tender, Open Tender, Global Tendering) based on the nature of the procurement.
Conduct spend analysis, cost modeling, and market analysis to ensure optimal value for money. Prepare detailed comparative statements to support decision-making.
Lead negotiation with suppliers on commercial terms, pricing, and conditions to achieve favorable outcomes.
Operational Excellence & Performance Management:
Drive the reduction of the "Purchase Requisition to Purchase Order" (PR to PO) cycle time, ensuring procurement activities are executed within agreed Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
Take ownership of ensuring the timely delivery of all materials and services, coordinating with suppliers and internal logistics teams to prevent delays.
Develop and maintain MIS reports, performance dashboards, and prepare monthly presentations on procurement KPIs for management review.
Supplier & Stakeholder Management:
Act as the primary coordinator with internal clients/departments to ensure a smooth operational flow and clear communication of requirements and timelines.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with suppliers at the operational level, effectively handling clarifications and resolving issues.
Compliance & Process Improvement:
Ensure all procurement activities comply with statutory regulations, internal policies, and relevant government circulars.
Proactively identify opportunities for process improvements within the procurement function and lead initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Required Qualifications, Skills & Competencies
Core Qualifications:
- Education: A Bachelor's degree in Engineering (B.E.), Commerce (B.Com), or a related field. A Diploma in Engineering or a relevant discipline is also acceptable.
- Experience: 2 to 5 years of hands-on experience in a strategic procurement or purchasing role.
- Systems Proficiency: Demonstrable working knowledge of SAP (specifically MM or SRM modules) and the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal for procurement.
Essential Skills & Knowledge Areas:
- Procurement Expertise: In-depth knowledge of the complete procurement lifecycle for goods, services, overseas buys, ARC, and AMC.
- Analytical Acumen: Strong ability to perform spend analysis, create detailed cost comparisons, and utilize data to drive procurement strategy.
- Negotiation & Communication: Proven negotiation skills with the ability to handle complex commercial discussions. Excellent communication and presentation skills are mandatory.
- Strategic Thinking: The ability to assess procurement needs and apply the most suitable strategy to achieve business objectives.
- Statutory & Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with relevant commercial laws, statutory clauses (e.g., related to contracts, taxation/GST, import/export) and their application in procurement.
- Stakeholder Management: A collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively with both internal teams and external suppliers.