Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Additional Information
Software
Timeline
Generic

Ernest Khunwana

Buyer Assistant
Mokopane

Summary

Dynamic Assistant Buyer proficient in negotiating with buyers, managing inventory and using data analysis to help companies understand product metrics. Confident Procurement specialist In-depth knowledge of inventory management software, JDE and Hubble. Coordinated and detailed professional with 8 years of experience fostering timely delivery of merchandise and keeping an accurate track of product flow. Dependable Procurement Specialist with a background in tracking products from vendor shipments to the consumer pipeline. Analytical performer with price dispute resolution experience. Considered an enthusiastic employee with great decision making skills.

Proactive and goal-oriented professional with excellent time management and problem-solving skills. Known for reliability and adaptability, with swift capacity to learn and apply new skills. Committed to leveraging these qualities to drive team success and contribute to organizational growth.

Overview

6
6
Languages
10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Buyer's Assistant

Ivanplats Mine (Platreef)
10.2023 - Current
  • Managed inventory levels, ensuring timely availability of materials to support production schedules.
  • Coordinated logistics for material deliveries, optimizing transportation routes and reducing lead times.
  • Implemented tracking systems to monitor order status, improving communication with stakeholders.
  • Assisted procurement team in sourcing and evaluating suppliers for mining operations.
  • Supported contract negotiations by analyzing supplier proposals and market trends for cost efficiency.
  • Mentored junior staff on procurement processes and best practices, fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Led initiatives to streamline purchasing workflows, enhancing overall operational efficiency within the department.
  • Expedited resolution of order discrepancies by liaising with suppliers and internal departments, minimizing disruptions to workflow.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends to inform strategic purchasing decisions and stay ahead of competitors.
  • Managed purchase orders from initiation to completion, ensuring accurate documentation and recordkeeping.
  • Optimized supply chain performance by closely monitoring vendor compliance and addressing issues promptly.
  • Assisted buyers in analyzing market trends, leading to informed purchasing decisions and competitive pricing strategies.
  • Contributed to inventory control efforts by tracking stock levels and assisting in forecasting future demand accurately.
  • Streamlined purchasing processes for increased efficiency and cost savings through meticulous organization and attention to detail.
  • Handled high volume purchasing tasks while maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines.
  • Assisted in the successful implementation of e-procurement systems that streamlined purchasing processes and improved overall department efficiency.
  • Participated in supplier negotiations, securing favorable terms that contributed to the company''s financial objectives.
  • Played a key role in cost reduction initiatives through diligent price comparisons and negotiation tactics with suppliers.
  • Conducted regular reviews of supplier performance, identifying areas for improvement or potential replacement when necessary.
  • Enhanced supplier relationships by negotiating favorable terms and maintaining regular communication.
  • Supported sourcing efforts by conducting thorough research into potential partners'' track records within the industry.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery of products, meeting customer expectations consistently.
  • Reduced lead times with proactive order placement, resulting in improved inventory management.
  • Facilitated communication between vendors and internal departments for seamless collaboration on various projects.
  • Maintained complete documentation and records of all purchasing activities.
  • Processed purchase orders and invoices in accordance with company procedures.
  • Reviewed purchasing trends and forecast demand for inventory planning and replenishment.
  • Performed yearly store audits in collaboration with managers, designers, and sales associates to provide feedback.
  • Utilized software to order, track and invoice product shipments.
  • Negotiate contracts with vendors, securing best prices and terms for materials, equipment and services.
  • Managed database of vendor details and pricing information to maintain organization.
  • Provided accurate and up-to-date records of leading procurement procedures.
  • Implemented policies and procedures for optimal purchasing methods and cost control.
  • Made valuable contributions to planning of promotions, pricing and inventory levels, enhancing inventory flow, revenue, and profits.
  • Reduced production downtime by overseeing quality control and assembly.

Site Administrator

Murray & Roberts Cementation
06.2023 - 09.2023
  • Coordinated logistics for materials and equipment to optimize site operations.
  • Implemented safety protocols, fostering a culture of safety awareness on-site.
  • Developed and maintained effective communication channels among project teams and stakeholders.
  • Managed site documentation, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulations.
  • Oversaw daily site activities, ensuring adherence to project timelines and quality standards.
  • Trained new staff on operational procedures, enhancing team efficiency and performance.
  • Coordinated staff meetings and events to foster communication, teamwork, and professional development opportunities for team members.
  • Oversaw the procurement of essential supplies, negotiating favorable terms with vendors while maintaining quality standards.
  • Served as point of contact for facility maintenance requests, coordinating prompt resolution of issues impacting daily operations.
  • Capture/Issue invoices and correctly allocate to relevant accounts.
  • Developed new filing and organizational practices, saving the company in contracted labor expenses.
  • Maintain utmost discretion when dealing with sensitive topics.
  • Prepare payment packs(Payment requisition, supplier GL & Statement Recon).
  • Match Open order/items.
  • Create monthly cash flow forecast.
  • Handle client requests and account queries.
  • Coordinated logistics for material deliveries, optimizing workflow efficiency within warehouse operations.
  • Managed inventory levels, ensuring accurate stock control and timely replenishment.
  • Oversaw daily safety inspections, promoting a culture of safety and compliance among team members.
  • Trained new staff on operational procedures and safety protocols to enhance team performance.
  • Implemented process improvements that reduced waste and increased overall productivity in storage areas.
  • Monitored equipment functionality, arranging repairs to minimize downtime and maintain operational efficiency.
  • Developed organized storage solutions, facilitating easy access to materials and improving retrieval times.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to streamline communication between departments, enhancing overall project execution.
  • Maintained a clean and clutter-free warehouse, ensuring easy access to products and adherence to safety guidelines.
  • Maintained a safe work environment by adhering to workplace health and safety standards, conducting regular inspections, and reporting hazards immediately.
  • Reduced product damage with proper handling, storage, and packaging techniques during loading and unloading processes.
  • Optimized space utilization within the warehouse, implementing effective stacking and storage strategies.
  • Ensured timely order fulfillment through accurate picking, packing, and dispatching of goods as per customer requirements.
  • Conducted quality checks on incoming goods before storage or distribution to ensure they met company standards.
  • Demonstrated excellent attention to detail while verifying incoming shipments against invoices or purchase orders for accuracy.
  • Performed routine maintenance checks on warehouse equipment to minimize downtime due to malfunctions or safety concerns.
  • Managed inventory levels effectively by conducting regular stocktakes and updating the tracking system accordingly.
  • Supported customer satisfaction by promptly addressing inquiries and resolving issues related to orders, deliveries, or products.
  • Supported the implementation of new inventory management software by providing feedback on its functionality, ease of use, and accuracy during the testing phase.
  • Enhanced inventory accuracy by consistently maintaining organized and up-to-date records of all stock items.
  • Completed point of sale opening and closing procedures.
  • Assisted in reducing unnecessary expenditure by monitoring supply levels closely for reorder points or surplus stock disposal opportunities.
  • Supervised guests at front counter, answering questions regarding products.
  • Reconciled daily sales transactions to balance and log day-to-day revenue.
  • Coached sales associates in product specifications, sales incentives, and selling techniques, significantly increasing customer satisfaction ratings.
  • Utilized forklift or pallet truck to load, unload, transport and store goods.
  • Processed required paperwork to expedite handling of shipped and received goods.
  • Moved shipment materials to and from designated areas using lift and hand trucks.
  • Rejected damaged items, recorded shortages and corresponded with shippers to rectify issues.
  • Packed, secured, labeled and applied postage to materials to prepare items for shipment.
  • Sorted and delivered materials to different work areas and staff.
  • Compared shipping orders and invoices against contents received to verify accuracy.
  • Inspected incoming and outgoing shipments to identify discrepancies with records.
  • Monitored inventory to maintain sufficient supply levels to meet business and customer needs.
  • Verified orders by comparing names and quantity of items packaged with shipping documents.
  • Drafted and managed work and shipping orders, bills of lading, and shipping route materials for accurate and compliant record keeping.
  • Requisitioned new supplies and maintained storage areas for smooth department operations.
  • Corresponded with carrier representatives to make arrangements and provide instructions for shipment and delivery of orders.
  • Conducted research to address shipping errors and packaging mistakes.
  • Factored shipping procedures, rates and routes in making determinations on best shipping methods for materials.
  • Communicated with carrier representatives, arranging for special deliveries and shipment receipts.
  • Worked effectively with shippers to resolve shipment issues, damaged materials and shortages.
  • Supported reporting, accounting and recordkeeping staff with accurate updates regarding shipment information.
  • Maintained up-to-date price lists to accurately calculate shipping, shortage and demurrage costs.
  • Managed purchase orders, ensuring timely delivery of materials and compliance with specifications.

Supply Chain Administrator

Murray & Roberts Cementation
11.2019 - 05.2023
  • Streamlined inventory management processes, reducing discrepancies and improving accuracy of stock levels.
  • Coordinated logistics operations to optimize delivery schedules and enhance customer satisfaction.
  • Developed and maintained relationships with suppliers, fostering collaboration for improved procurement efficiency.
  • Managed supply chain documentation, ensuring compliance with industry standards and internal policies.
  • Analyzed supply chain data to identify trends, enabling informed decision-making for process improvements.
  • Negotiated favorable contract terms with suppliers, resulting in significant cost savings.
  • Trained new employees on company-specific procedures related to purchasing, inventory management, and shipping.

Workshop Adminstrator

Murray & Roberts Cementation
04.2019 - 10.2019
  • Managed documentation and record-keeping for compliance with industry regulations.
  • Coordinated administrative tasks to enhance operational efficiency in project management.
  • Streamlined communication processes between departments to improve response times.
  • Implemented improvements in filing systems, increasing document retrieval speed.
  • Assisted in scheduling meetings and coordinating logistics for site visits and training sessions.
  • Developed and maintained comprehensive databases for tracking project timelines and deliverables.
  • Supported financial operations by processing invoices and monitoring budget expenditures.
  • Trained new staff on administrative procedures, ensuring adherence to company standards.
  • Handled sensitive information discreetly, maintaining strict confidentiality at all times as required by company policy or legal regulations.
  • Maintained personnel records and updated internal databases to support document management.
  • Organized workflow and delegated tasks effectively to ensure timely project completion without compromising quality.
  • Managed office inventory levels, ensuring adequate supplies were available while minimizing waste and unnecessary spending.
  • Supervised administrative support staff members, offering guidance, feedback, and mentorship that contributed to their professional growth and development.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of company policies and procedures for easy reference by all employees.
  • Reduced overhead costs through careful budget management and resource allocation.
  • Enhanced internal communication by creating a centralized information hub accessible to all staff members.
  • Streamlined invoice processing, reducing average payment turnaround time.
  • Negotiated with vendors to secure more favorable terms, resulting in cost savings for office expenses.
  • Led transition to paperless office, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
  • Optimized supply chain logistics for office supplies, avoiding stockouts and excess inventory.
  • Created and managed project plans, timelines and budgets.

Project Administrator

Murray & Roberts Cementation
12.2018 - 03.2019
  • Coordinated project schedules, ensuring timely completion of deliverables and alignment with client expectations.
  • Monitored project budgets, tracking expenses to support financial compliance and resource allocation.
  • Facilitated communication between stakeholders, promoting collaboration and addressing project-related inquiries promptly.
  • Assisted in managing project documentation, maintaining accuracy and organization for efficient access by team members.
  • Organized project meetings, preparing agendas and distributing minutes to enhance team coordination and follow-up actions.
  • Developed status reports, summarizing progress updates to inform management and stakeholders on project developments.
  • Supported procurement processes, collaborating with vendors to ensure timely delivery of materials and services required for projects.
  • Facilitated regular team meetings for effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving efforts.
  • Maintained accurate records of all project-related expenses to facilitate budget tracking and financial reporting.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing favorable terms to optimize project outcomes.
  • Reported regularly to managers on project budget, progress, and technical problems.

Finance Intern

Outsourcing Experts
06.2017 - 11.2018
  • Assisted in financial data analysis using Excel and accounting software to ensure accuracy in reporting.
  • Collaborated with team members to prepare monthly financial statements and budget forecasts.
  • Conducted research on market trends to support investment recommendations and strategic planning initiatives.
  • Streamlined expense tracking processes, enhancing efficiency in budget management procedures.
  • Supported preparation of audit materials, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and company policies.
  • Developed presentations summarizing financial findings for stakeholders to facilitate informed decision-making.
  • Engaged in cross-departmental projects, fostering collaboration to achieve organizational financial goals.
  • Adapted quickly to evolving tasks, demonstrating flexibility in a dynamic finance environment.
  • Maintained accurate, up-to-date financial spreadsheets and databases for reliable reference.
  • Prepared and posted financial journal entries using technically relevant software.
  • Supported organizational account management duties under direct supervision.
  • Managed sensitive information responsibly, maintaining strict confidentiality standards.
  • Reviewed expense reports for accuracy, ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.
  • Developed strong relationships with clients through effective communication, fostering trust and satisfaction.
  • Analyzed financial statements to identify trends and provide valuable insights for decision-making.
  • Reviewed statements with staff accountants to inform corporate and individual financial planning.
  • Implemented system for tracking payments on projects and contracts.
  • Type documents such as correspondence, drafts, memos, and emails, and prepare 3 reports weekly for management
  • Capture Supplier invoices and issue out customer invoices on Oracle
  • Booking Vehicle/Trucks for Services
  • Controlling transport weekly journal
  • Control Petty Cash and hand over trip fee to drivers
  • Import accrual Journal to Oracle

Student Support Officer

Ekurhuleni West College
01.2017 - 05.2017
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.

Education

National Diploma - Financial Management

Ekurhuleni West TVET College
Kempton Park, South Africa
04.2001 -

Skills

Materials purchasing

Supplier relationship management

Process improvement

Competitive sourcing

Product procurement

Purchasing processes

Detail orientation

Team collaboration

Vendor management

Process management

Trend assessment

Workflow optimization

Verbal communication

Financial analysis

Time management

Task prioritization

Multitasking

Communication etiquette

Organizational skills

Creativity and innovation

Teamwork

Collaborative teamwork

Customer service

Effective communication

Writing and verbal communication

Self-driven

Material specifications

Interpersonal skills

Conflict resolution

Reliability

Self motivation

Team building

Paperwork management

Cost negotiation

Continuous improvement

Inventory management

Strategic planning

Purchasing

Order processing

Accomplishments

  • Resolved product issue through consumer testing.
  • Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
  • Willingness to Teach other co-workers and ensure that they understand their role.
  • Helped other co-workers to understand JDE system.
  • Secured Big Contract (SLA) with supplier for the company.

Additional Information

Results-oriented Assistant Buyer with experience in procuring and managing multiple product categories, such as apparel, electronics,mining support materials, Engineering consumables, critical spares for Plants and Services. Passionate about capitalising on sustainable sourcing to identify and implement practices that enable businesses to become more environmentally friendly. Focused on discovering creative ways of saving money, improving customer satisfaction, and increasing efficiency.

Software

JDE System

Oracle

Microsoft

Hubble

Timeline

Buyer's Assistant

Ivanplats Mine (Platreef)
10.2023 - Current

Site Administrator

Murray & Roberts Cementation
06.2023 - 09.2023

Supply Chain Administrator

Murray & Roberts Cementation
11.2019 - 05.2023

Workshop Adminstrator

Murray & Roberts Cementation
04.2019 - 10.2019

Project Administrator

Murray & Roberts Cementation
12.2018 - 03.2019

Finance Intern

Outsourcing Experts
06.2017 - 11.2018

Student Support Officer

Ekurhuleni West College
01.2017 - 05.2017

National Diploma - Financial Management

Ekurhuleni West TVET College
04.2001 -
Ernest KhunwanaBuyer Assistant