Assistant Purchasing Manager

• Assist in the identification, evaluation and selection of suppliers and vendors to ensure quality products and competitive pricing
• Prepare purchase orders, request for quotations (RFQs) and purchase requisitions in accordance with company standards and approval processes
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with relevant departments to ensure adequate stock whilst minimizing excess inventory
• Negotiate pricing, delivery terms and contract conditions with suppliers to achieve cost savings and favorable terms
• Track and record all purchasing transactions, maintaining accurate procurement documentation and records
• Communicate with suppliers regarding order status, delivery schedules and any issues or discrepancies
• Assist in resolving purchase order discrepancies, billing issues and supplier complaints in a timely manner
• Support the development and maintenance of supplier databases and procurement systems
• Contribute to the analysis of purchasing trends and costs to identify opportunities for improvement
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures and relevant regulations in all procurement activities

JOB QUALIFICATION:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Procurement or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
• 2-4 years of experience in a purchasing, procurement or inventory management role within the manufacturing, logistics or agricultural sector
• Strong knowledge of procurement processes, vendor management and inventory control principles
• Excellent negotiation skills with the ability to secure favorable pricing and terms from suppliers
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, and experience with purchasing or inventory management software systems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with internal teams and external suppliers
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and work under pressure whilst maintaining accuracy
• Knowledge of fruit and fresh produce procurement is highly desirable
• Familiarity with import/export procedures and regulatory compliance is preferred