Purchasing Specialist Projects
Nyrstar
Overview of the role
The Purchasing Specialist – Projects is responsible for managing the end-to-end procurement process for project-specific needs. This role requires a keen understanding of project requirements, timelines, and budget constraints. The successful candidate will source high-quality goods and services, negotiate contracts, and coordinate with project teams to ensure timely delivery—helping to drive project success and overall organizational efficiency.
Key Accountabilities
Project Procurement & Coordination:
- Collaborate with project managers to understand detailed project specifications and timelines.
- Plan and execute procurement strategies tailored to each project.
- Ensure that ordered goods and services adhere to project quality, quantity, and delivery requirements.
Vendor Management:
- Identify, evaluate, and establish relationships with qualified suppliers.
- Negotiate pricing and contracting terms to secure competitive rates without compromising quality.
- Monitor vendor performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and continuous improvement in service.
Purchasing Process & Documentation:
- Create, process, and manage purchase orders in accordance with company policies.
- Maintain accurate records, including contracts, negotiations, and order status updates.
- Coordinate with finance and inventory teams to ensure accurate accounting and stock management.
Market & Cost Analysis:
- Analyze market trends, industry benchmarks, and potential supply risks.
- Leverage market intelligence to propose cost-saving strategies and enhance procurement outcomes.
- Forecast inventory needs based on project phases and adjust purchasing plans accordingly.
Compliance & Continuous Improvement:
- Ensure all procurement activities meet internal policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical standards.
- Identify opportunities to streamline procurement operations and implement best practices to boost efficiency.
Measures and reports KPI’s:
- Runs the queries needed to obtain scores on the KPI’s.
- Presents results in a fixed (visual) format.
- Reports results to management and internal departments
- Makes suggestions for improvements in terms of the management program, ISO procedures and general purchasing operational conditions.
QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or related fields.
- Must be in a similar role for 3+ years’ experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain roles, ideally with a focus on project-driven environments.
- Must fluently speak and write English.
COMPETENCIES
Specific purchase competencies:
Technical Skills:
-Proficiency with ERP and procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Coupa, SAP Ariba).
-Strong analytical abilities and experience in using data analysis tools (e.g., Excel).
Soft Skills:
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams under tight project deadlines.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Preferred Attributes
- Certifications in procurement or supply chain management (e.g., Certified Purchasing Specialist, CPSM) are a plus.
- Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.
- Demonstrated success in managing complex and high-value projects.
Additional Information:
In this role, you’ll be expected not only to maintain cost-effective purchasing practices but also to drive improvements in procurement processes. As a key contributor in ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget, your ability to balance quality with a deep understanding of project dynamics is crucial. This role demands a proactive mindset toward identifying risk, leveraging market insights, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across procurement practices.
Based on current best practices and job guidelines from the industry, a Purchasing Specialist focused on projects must excel at both strategic planning and day-to-day operational details. This comprehensive approach ensures that every project has the necessary materials and resources to succeed, paving the way for overall business growth.
General Competencies
- Effectively maintain a clean and organized work environment
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- Operates in an orderly, efficiently manner with the ability to prioritize
- Motivated, flexible, and reliable
- Ability to problem solve and work under pressure
- Good analytical skills
- Good organizational and communication skills
- Knowledge of relevant production processes
- Ability to use initiative and pre-empt needs
- Innovative and creative in dealing with complex issues.
- Ability to drive changes