Responsible for leading tactical operational procurement activities and managing the end-to-end purchasing execution of engineering, maintenance, shutdown and project-related requirements across AECI Mining operations. Serves as the primary procurement interface between the business and Procurement, ensuring the efficient execution of sourcing strategies, contract utilisation, supplier performance management and uninterrupted supply of engineering goods and services required to support safe and reliable operations. Leading and directing a team of Buyers, driving procurement service excellence, ensuring compliance to procurement policies and contracts and supporting operational, maintenance and project teams through effective purchasing execution and supplier engagement
Job Summary
- Employer: AECI Mining
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Supply Chain
- Closing Date: 2026-10-23
Key Responsibilities
- Early engagement with Engineering, Maintenance and Planning on upcoming work / projects
- Participation in plant shutdown, outage and project planning meetings
- Forward visibility of critical spares, long-lead items and recurring service needs
- Lead and manage end-to-end purchasing execution (requisition → PO → delivery → issue resolution)
- Ensure timely procurement of engineering materials, spares, services and contractor requirements
- Execute procurement activities in accordance with approved category strategies and sourcing decisions
- Execute procurement activities in accordance with approved category strategies and sourcing decisions
- Monitor open purchase orders and expedite critical deliveries
- Manage procurement service levels and ensure responsiveness to operational requirements
- Support maintenance shutdowns and planned outages through effective procurement planning and execution
- Coordinate procurement support for operational and project-related requirements
- Ensure continuity of supply for critical operational materials and services
- Drive contract compliance and maverick spend reduction
- Ensure accurate and timely procurement transactions in SAP/Coupa
- Manage expediting and resolution of supply disruptions
- Lead supplier negotiations to achieve optimal commercial outcomes
- 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
- Conduct critical supplier / material risk monitoring
- 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
- Support the negotiation and implementation of supplier agreements
- Track and report on purchase price variance, savings realization and Budget adherence
- Support budgeting and forecasting processes
- Ensure cost discipline and value delivery
- Ensure payment term compliance
- Ensure invoice query resolution support
- Avoidance of duplicate, incorrect or non-compliant purchases
- Working capital awareness linked to inventory, lead times and supplier terms
- 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
- Supplier ethics, anti-bribery and anti-corruption compliance
- Conflict of interest declaration and management
- Fair and transparent procurement practices
- Confidential handling of commercial and supplier information
- Identify opportunities for process optimization, automation and digital adoption / reduction of manual interventions
- Preferential procurement and BBBEE supplier development alignment
- Localisation opportunities where relevant
- Enterprise and supplier development support, where applicable
- Transformation objectives aligned to company procurement policy
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree / BTech in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Supply Chain or related field
- Postgraduate qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain, or Business Management will be advantageous
- At least 5-7 years proven experience in procurement, category management, supply chain or operations
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in engineering, maintenance, manufacturing, mining, chemicals or industrial environments
- Experience managing operational procurement activities and supplier performance
- Experience supervising or leading procurement teams
- Strong ERP and eProcurement experience (SAP & Coupa)
- Solid commercial and analytical capability
- Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Experience supporting maintenance, shutdown and operational procurement requirements
- Experience working in matrix and multi-site operating environments
How to Apply
REF Code: 2226
About the Company
AECI Mining operates in Botswana through its key subsidiaries, AECI Mining Explosives Botswana (Pty) Ltd and AECI Mining Chemicals Botswana (Pty) Ltd. Based in Gaborone, these entities provide a comprehensive suite of products crucial for the nation's mining industry. The company specialises in advanced mining explosives and essential chemicals, supporting the full value chain from raw material processing to blasting solutions. AECI Mining often engages in a collaborative three-way partnership with its customers, delivering integrated and tailored support to enhance operational efficiency and safety. This strategic presence underscores its commitment to Botswana's significant mining landscape.
Innovative blasting and chemical solutions, empowering Botswana's mining sector.
Website: https://www.aeciworld.com/mining
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Purchasing Specialist in Engineering in Botswana?
Most employers require a diploma or degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Engineering, or Business Administration. Professional certifications like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) or SAP MM certification are highly valued and can improve your competitiveness in the local job market.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Purchasing Specialist in Engineering?
You will source engineering materials and equipment, negotiate with suppliers, process purchase orders, and ensure timely delivery to mining or construction sites. You will also maintain vendor relationships, track inventory levels, and resolve supply chain issues to keep operations running smoothly.
How does work culture and employer expectations differ for Purchasing Specialists in Botswana's mining sector?
Employers expect strong reliability, punctuality, and respect for hierarchy, with clear communication through proper channels. Mining sector roles often require flexibility for site visits, adherence to strict safety protocols, and ability to work under pressure during operational deadlines.
What career progression opportunities exist for Purchasing Specialists in Botswana?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Buyer, Procurement Manager, or Supply Chain Manager roles within mining houses or engineering firms. Some professionals transition into consulting or move into regional procurement roles covering Southern Africa operations.
What benefits are typically offered for Purchasing Specialist roles in Botswana?
Standard benefits usually include medical aid coverage, pension contributions, and annual leave as prescribed by Botswana labour law. Mining sector employers often provide additional benefits such as site allowances, performance bonuses, and professional development support.
How should I apply for Purchasing Specialist positions, and what do Botswana employers look for?
Apply through company career portals, local job boards like Botswana Jobs, or recruitment agencies specializing in mining and engineering. Employers prioritize candidates with proven negotiation skills, ERP system experience, local supplier networks, and clean background checks due to the sensitive nature of procurement in mining.
