PURPOSE OF THE JOB

Responsible for developing and executing category sourcing strategies that deliver sustainable value across engineering, maintenance, projects and operational spend portfolios. Drives cost competitiveness, supply continuity, supplier performance, risk mitigation and innovation while supporting asset reliability, operational excellence and business growth objectives across AECI Mining operations.

Working closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, Projects, Supply Chain, SHEQ, Commercial, Legal and Finance stakeholders. Acts as a trusted business partner to ensure the optimal sourcing of engineering goods, services and technical solutions through effective category management, strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management and commercial governance. Alao accountable for delivering measurable value through cost optimization, supplier innovation, contract coverage, supply risk mitigation, inventory optimization, localization initiatives and total cost of ownership improvements.

Job Summary

Employer: AECI Mining
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Gaborone, Botswana
Category: Procurement
Closing Date: 2026-10-15

Key Responsibilities

Develop strategic sourcing approaches for critical mechanical equipment, engineering spares and maintenance services to improve plant reliability and operational continuity
Lead sourcing activities for engineering spares, maintenance services and operational requirements
Drive end-to-end sourcing activities, including RFx processes, supplier evaluations, commercial negotiations, and supplier selection.
Support the development and continuous refinement of category strategies through market intelligence and demand insights.
Conduct ongoing spend analysis, market and supplier research to identify opportunities, risks, and alternative supply sources.
Continuously monitor supplier markets, risks and availability to support operational continuity
Identify alternative suppliers and sourcing opportunities to improve reliability and responsiveness
Provide input into Procurement dashboards and tracking tools.
Support procurement planning through spend analysis, demand forecasting and supplier insights
Contribute to budgeting and forecasting processes through spend and cost analysis.
Proactively identify and mitigate supply and commercial risks within assigned categories.
Ensure procurement activities align with operational, maintenance and shutdown requirements
Conduct detailed spend analysis across managed categories to identify cost-saving opportunities, demand drivers, and initiatives to reduce operational inefficiencies and procurement lead times.
Identify, develop, and implement cost-saving and value-creation initiatives aligned to procurement targets.
Support the implementation of category-led initiatives, to ensure value delivery and in line with procurement targets.
Apply total cost of ownership (TCO) principles to enable optimal sourcing decisions.
Perform cost modelling, scenario analysis, and should-cost modelling using market and supplier data.
Support standardisation and optimisation initiatives across engineering and maintenance procurement
Track and report on savings delivery and benefits realisation.
Support optimisation of engineering inventory and critical spare holdings to balance operational reliability and working capital requirements
Identify opportunities to reduce emergency procurement through improved planning, supplier alignment and sourcing strategies
Drive standardisation initiatives across engineering and maintenance categories to reduce complexity and improve procurement efficiency
Build and maintain a qualified supplier base for assigned categories;
Manage supplier performance across quality, cost, service delivery and responsiveness
Support supplier segmentation and contribute to supplier category and/ or diversification strategies.
Monitor supplier performance through defined KPIs (cost, quality, delivery, service, sustainability) and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Lead supplier performance reviews and implement corrective actions where required.
Develop and maintain strategic relationships with OEMs and specialised engineering suppliers to improve technical support, responsiveness and lifecycle value
Drive supplier innovation and continuous improvement
Partner with internal stakeholders (Operations, Commercial, Finance, S&OP, R&D) to support plant reliability and operational continuity
Support shutdown and turnaround planning through sourcing readiness, supplier coordination and critical spares availability
Provide procurement support and commercial guidance on engineering and CAPEX requirements
Contribute to S&OP processes and support demand planning inputs for key suppliers.
Provide data-driven insights and recommendations to support business needs.
Continuously ensure alignment between procurement activities and operational requirements.
Support budgeting processes through accurate spend and cost analysis.
Act as a trusted advisor to stakeholders on sourcing and supplier-related matters on managed categories.
Champion all procurement improvement programs / initiatives E.g. Digitisation, Policy Rollout
Develop and execute negotiations strategies for new and existing suppliers to achieve optimal commercial outcomes and lowest total cost of ownership, and meet savings targets
Lead commercial negotiations within delegated authority to achieve optimal pricing and contractual outcomes
Support the drafting, review, and management of contracts, ensuring alignment with business requirements and risk mitigation principles
Monitor contract compliance and utilisation, identifying risks and improvement opportunities
Ensure all procurement activities comply with internal governance frameworks and policies

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Procurement or related discipline
Postgraduate qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain or Business Management advantageous
Professional procurement certification (for example CIPS) advantageous
Project Management certification (PMP, Prince2 or equivalent). Advantageous
Contract Management Qualification
Lean, Six Sigma or Continuous Improvement certification
Minimum 8-10 years’ experience in Strategic Sourcing, Procurement, Category Management or Supply Chain
Minimum 5 years’ experience within mining, explosives, manufacturing, chemicals, engineering or heavy industrial environments
Proven experience managing engineering, maintenance and project-related categories
Proven experience in developing and implementing category strategies
Demonstrated experience managing significant spend portfolios and strategic supplier relationships
Experience managing complex commercial negotiations and contract frameworks
Experience supporting capital projects, shutdowns and turnaround activities
Experience conducting supplier performance management and governance reviews
Experience with ERP systems, preferably SAP
Experience using eProcurement platforms and sourcing tools
Experience working in multi-site and multi-regional business environments

How to Apply

To apply, please visit: jobs.aeciworld.com

REF Code: 2157

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications or certifications are typically required for an SS&C Specialist: Engineering role at mining companies like AECI Mining in Botswana?

Most employers require a relevant engineering degree or diploma, such as in mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering. Professional registration with the Engineers Registration Board of Botswana (ERB) is often preferred or required. Additional certifications in supply chain management, procurement, or SAP systems can strengthen your application.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an SS&C Specialist: Engineering in the procurement department?

You will manage sourcing and procurement of engineering goods and services, negotiate contracts with suppliers, and ensure compliance with technical specifications. Daily tasks include processing purchase requisitions, evaluating vendor performance, and coordinating with engineering teams on project requirements. You will also monitor inventory levels and resolve supply chain disruptions to keep mining operations running smoothly.

How does workplace culture in Botswana mining companies typically affect procurement specialists?

Botswana mining workplaces emphasize respect for hierarchy and collaborative decision-making across departments. Punctuality and reliability are highly valued, given the operational demands of mining sites. Building strong relationships with local and international suppliers is essential, as personal networks often facilitate smoother procurement processes.

What career progression opportunities exist for procurement specialists in Botswana's mining sector?

With experience, you can advance to senior buyer, procurement manager, or supply chain manager roles within the company. Some professionals transition into project management or operational leadership positions. Pursuing further qualifications, such as an MBA or CIPS certification, can accelerate progression to executive-level supply chain roles.

What benefits are typically offered to full-time procurement specialists in Botswana mining companies?

Standard benefits usually include medical aid coverage, pension or provident fund contributions, and annual leave as prescribed by Botswana labour law. Many mining companies also provide housing allowances, transport to remote sites, and performance-based bonuses. Specific packages vary by employer and seniority level.

How should I apply for an SS&C Specialist: Engineering role, and what do Botswana mining employers look for in candidates?

Submit your application through the company's official careers portal or email, ensuring your CV highlights relevant procurement and engineering experience. Employers prioritize candidates with local mining industry knowledge, strong negotiation skills, and familiarity with procurement software. Include references from previous supervisors and tailor your cover letter to demonstrate understanding of Botswana's mining supply chain challenges.