Job Summary
- Employer: Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Procurement
- Closing Date: 2026-09-25
Key Responsibilities
- Own, develop, maintain and update category strategy and Category Procurement SOPs.
- Review and analyse historical spend, technical requirements, market analysis, identified suppliers, sourcing strategies, key risks, savings opportunities and implementation timelines.
- Execute sourcing events to award contracts.
- Develop negotiation strategies and negotiate with suppliers.
- Regularly interface with end users through recurring meetings to address business requirements.
- Anticipate and manage sourcing barriers and issues, manage spend and find savings.
- Identify opportunities for improvement.
- Implement supply risk management strategy.
- Ensure all purchasing is done in compliance with the category strategy and associated DoA.
- Oversee execution of the central category strategy.
- Work with the Contract Manager to implement supplier contracts.
- Set the supplier strategy, including localisation.
- Identify supplier risks and apply mitigations together with Country Procurement.
- Manage supplier relationships and act as key contact for centralised category suppliers.
- Drive a culture of governance and compliance across the Team of Buyers.
- Submit weekly, monthly reports and annual audits to ensure compliance with procurement function standards.
- Create an integrated team.
- Lead, mentor and guide Buyers.
- Adhere to and enforce Procurement strategy, policy and procedures.
Requirements
- A relevant bachelor’s degree in commerce, supply chain, procurement, logistics or equivalent.
- Membership of CIPS.
- Minimum 5 years of procurement experience.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word and PowerPoint, with the ability to analyse data, prepare management reports and deliver professional presentations.
- Strong influencing skills.
- Advanced negotiating skills.
- Legal contracting skills.
- Self-starter ability and capacity to work with minimal supervision.
- Problem-solving capabilities.
How to Apply
About the Company
Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe is a major agricultural and sugar processing company operating in the Lowveld region of Zimbabwe, with its headquarters in Harare. The company manages extensive sugarcane estates and operates mills at Triangle and Hippo Valley, making it one of the largest sugar producers in the country. It employs thousands of workers across its operations, contributing significantly to Zimbabwe's agricultural exports and rural economy. The company is a subsidiary of the South African-based Tongaat Hulett Limited but operates as a distinct entity within Zimbabwe's regulatory and economic environment. Its operations span sugar milling, ethanol production, and cattle ranching, with a long-established presence in the Masvingo Province.
Zimbabwe's leading sugar producer and agricultural powerhouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Procurement Category Manager role at a company like Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe?
Most employers in Zimbabwe require a degree in Supply Chain Management, Commerce, or Business Administration. Professional certifications such as CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply) or ZIPS (Zimbabwe Institute of Procurement and Supply) membership are highly valued. Experience in agricultural or manufacturing procurement, particularly in sugar or milling industries, is often preferred.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Procurement Category Manager for Mills?
You will manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts for milling equipment, spare parts, and raw materials, and monitor inventory levels to ensure uninterrupted production. The role involves analyzing spend data, conducting market research, and collaborating with operations teams to align procurement with milling schedules. Regular reporting on cost savings and supplier performance to senior management is also expected.
How does work culture and employer expectations differ in Zimbabwe's procurement sector?
Zimbabwean employers value reliability, strong relationship-building skills, and adaptability to economic fluctuations such as currency volatility and supply chain disruptions. Punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and demonstrated loyalty to the organization are important cultural expectations. You should also be prepared to work with limited resources and find creative solutions to procurement challenges.
What career progression opportunities exist for Procurement Category Managers in Zimbabwe?
With strong performance, you can advance to Head of Procurement, Supply Chain Director, or Operations Manager roles within large agribusiness or manufacturing firms. Some professionals transition into consulting or establish their own procurement advisory businesses. Continuous professional development through CIPS or MBA programs significantly accelerates career growth.
What benefits are typically offered for senior procurement roles at established Zimbabwean companies?
Benefits usually include medical aid coverage, pension or retirement contributions, and annual leave in line with Zimbabwean labor law. Larger employers may offer housing or transport allowances, performance bonuses, and educational support for professional certifications. Always confirm specific benefits during the interview process as packages vary considerably by organization.
How should I apply for a Procurement Category Manager position, and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize in candidates?
Submit applications through company career portals, LinkedIn, or email with a tailored CV highlighting measurable procurement achievements and category expertise. Employers prioritize candidates with proven cost reduction results, strong negotiation track records, and local supplier network knowledge. Prepare for competency-based interviews focusing on crisis management, ethical sourcing, and stakeholder engagement examples.
