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3 days ago
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
Job Summary
- Employer: AECI Water
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Procurement
- Closing Date: 2026-10-13
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Purchasing Lead role in Botswana?
Most employers require a diploma or degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or Business Administration. Professional certifications such as CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply) or CIS are highly valued and often preferred by major companies operating in Botswana.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Purchasing Lead?
You will oversee vendor negotiations, manage purchase orders, monitor inventory levels, and ensure timely delivery of goods. The role also involves preparing procurement reports, ensuring compliance with company policies, and coordinating with finance and operations teams across departments.
How does workplace culture in Botswana affect procurement roles?
Botswana workplaces emphasize respect for hierarchy and strong relationship-building with local and regional suppliers. Punctuality, clear communication, and understanding of local business etiquette are essential, as personal connections often influence supplier partnerships and contract negotiations.
What career progression opportunities exist for Purchasing Leads in Botswana?
With experience, you can advance to Procurement Manager, Supply Chain Director, or Head of Commercial roles. Many professionals also move into consulting or transition to multinational mining and industrial companies that offer broader regional responsibilities.
What benefits are typically offered for senior procurement positions in Botswana?
Standard packages usually include medical aid, pension contributions, and annual leave as prescribed by Botswana labour law. Some employers also offer performance bonuses, housing allowances, or transport benefits, particularly for roles in remote mining areas.
How should I apply for a Purchasing Lead position, and what do Botswana employers prioritize?
Submit a tailored CV highlighting quantifiable achievements in cost savings and vendor management through company career portals or recruitment agencies like HRMC and CareerPool. Employers prioritize candidates with local market knowledge, SAP or ERP experience, and a proven track record of ethical procurement practices.
