Category Buyer

About This Role

About Us

We are Imbono. A leading operator and provider of infrastructure and essential goods and services across emerging markets. There is no other emerging markets player like us. We combine global capital and operational expertise in a single, integrated model. We are the architects of possibility – sharp thinkers, problem solvers, and resourceful innovators who make things happen when no one else can. And every project is built to last. Our ambition is to transform the lives of more than 100 million people by 2040 by expanding access to essential services such as water, energy, food, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Our Mission is delivering integrated, high-impact solutions that expand access to essential services combining operational execution, local presence, strategic partnerships, and sustainable capital.

Role Summary

The Category Buyer is responsible for the strategic sourcing, procurement, and supplier management of assigned product categories. Working closely with internal stakeholders and the wider supply chain team, the Category Buyer ensures the best value, quality, and delivery performance while aligning purchasing activities with company objectives.

Roles and Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Category Management

• Develop and implement category strategies in alignment with business goals.
• Conduct market analysis to identify sourcing opportunities, trends, and risks.
• Lead RFx processes (RFI, RFQ, RFP) and evaluate supplier proposals.
• Build and maintain a competitive and diverse supplier base.

Procurement & Purchasing

• Manage the end-to-end procurement process for assigned categories.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, payment terms, and service level agreements.
• Issue and manage purchase orders in line with internal approval workflows.
• Ensure timely delivery and resolution of any supply or quality issues.

Supplier Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers.
• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and track KPIs.
• Identify and onboard new suppliers as required.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives with strategic partners.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with internal teams including Finance, Operations, and Logistics.
• Support forecasting and demand planning activities.
• Collaborate with the logistics team to ensure smooth order fulfilment.

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure all purchasing activities comply with internal policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate procurement records and data in the ERP system.
• Prepare regular reports on category spend, savings, and supplier performance.

Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in procurement or category buying.

Educational Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, or a related field. Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, or a related field.
• CIPS qualification or equivalent is desirable.

Skills

• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in spend analysis and market benchmarking.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficient in ERP/procurement systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar).
• Advanced MS Excel skills: familiarity with Power BI is a plus.
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Fluency in English required; Chinese is an advantage.

Competencies

• Understands stakeholder needs and delivers value driven sourcing outcomes
• Executes procurement activities to a high standard with discipline and accountability
• Seeks better ways of working through data, insight, and alternative sourcing options
• Acts ethically, fairly, and transparently in all procurement decisions
• Takes ownership and follows through to resolve issues and deliver results

Imbono Values

• Client Oriented
• Excellence
• Innovation
• Integrity
• Perseverance

We believe that diversity strengthens our organisation and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We want every candidate to perform at their best. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us and we will work with you to meet your needs.