Purchasing Lead – Aeci Water

Job Description

Main Purpose of the Job

Is responsible for leading operational procurement execution and business-facing purchasing activities for the Chemicals business. The role ensures efficient, compliant, and value-driven purchasing delivery, while acting as the primary procurement interface for the business unit. The role focuses on: * Translating category strategies into execution * Driving contract compliance and cost control * Leading a team of Buyers * Ensuring supply continuity and operational excellence

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage end-to-end purchasing execution (requisition → PO → delivery → issue resolution) Ensure adherence to category strategies and contracted suppliers Drive contract compliance and maverick spend reduction Ensure accurate and timely procurement transactions in SAP/Coupa Manage expediting and resolution of supply disruptions Lead, coach, and develop a team of Buyers Set clear KPIs (OTIF delivery, cost savings, compliance, cycle time) Drive a high-performance, service-oriented culture Support capability building across tactical and operational buying Monitor supplier performance across cost, quality and delivery reliability Manage supplier issue resolution and escalation Identify and mitigate supply and operational risks Support supplier reviews in collaboration with Strategic Sourcing and/or Category Managers Act as the primary procurement interface for the assigned business unit Translate business requirements into clear purchasing plans Ensure alignment between business demand and procurement execution Provide input on cost drivers, price movements, and supply risks Ensure timely PR conversion to PO, matching of delivery notes, processing and clearing GRIR account, and assist FSSC to have updated AP listing. Track and report on purchase price variance, savings realization and Budget adherence Support budgeting and forecasting processes Ensure cost discipline and value delivery AP and GRIR Ageing. No items older than 60 days. Ensure full compliance with procurement policies, Delegation of authority (DoA) and Contracting standards Maintain audit-ready procurement records Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes, system utilisation (SAP, Coupa), data quality and reporting Identify opportunities for process optimization, automation and digital adoption / reduction of manual interventions Support procurement transformation initiatives led at higher levels

Requirements

Degree in Supply Chain management or relevant finance degree. Postgraduate qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain, or Business Management will be advantageous; Competent in AI, data, master data and vendor management At least 5-7 years proven experience in procurement, category management, supply chain or operations; Strong ERP and eProcurement experience (SAP, Coupa) Solid commercial and analytical capability Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills; Exposure to industrial or specialty chemicals or similar industries. (Explosives Industry knowledge advantageous.) Demonstrated ability to manage teams

How to Apply

To apply, please visit: jobs.aeciworld.com REF Code: 2163

Closing Date: 2026-10-13