Procurement Category Manager: Agricutural Inputs

Minimum Requirements: Strong practical and technical knowledge of agricultural chemicals, fertilizer and seed; preferably at least 5 years of relevant experience; Experience in product categories, suppliers, pricing, seasonal demand planning and inventory management; Experience with central purchasing, supplier agreements and stock supply to an agricultural retail branch network will be a strong advantage; Ability to interpret product specifications, labels, registration status, application requirements and technical product documentation; Relevant agricultural qualification, knowledge of applicable legislation and registration requirements (including Act 36 of 1947), AS400 and relevant industry bodies will be advantageous. Skills: Strong organisational, communication and problem-solving abilities; Accuracy, accountability and the ability to perform under operational and seasonal pressure; Service-oriented mindset and good cooperation with internal stakeholders. Responsibilities: Manage the daily product range, assortment and product data for crop protection, fertilizer and seed in line with the category manager's strategy; Plan and place purchases for branches and relevant central stock points based on seasonal demand, minimum/maximum levels and lead times; Monitor stock availability, stock age, expiry dates, stockouts and excess inventory; Obtain and compare quotations, confirm delivery times and follow up on orders with suppliers; Maintain and review costs, selling prices, product specifications, registration information and supplier data in conjunction with administration; Coordinate new product lines, phase-outs, product training and promotional information, taking applicable product and safety requirements into account; Support branches and marketers with product selection, technical enquiries, seasonal planning and customer quotations; Coordinate supplier claims, returns and credit notes with the Purchasing Assistant; Submit weekly exception reports and monthly performance reports to the Purchasing Manager.