Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Software
Interests
Timeline
Generic

Tholakele Prudence Mzolo

Procurement Specialist
Durban

Summary

Dynamic and results-driven Procurement Specialist with over 10 years of expertise in managing end-to-end procure-to-pay (P2P) processes. Skilled in strategic vendor management, contract negotiation, and procurement decision-making to drive cost savings and operational efficiency. Proven ability to evaluate suppliers, negotiate favorable terms, and ensure compliance with organizational policies and regulatory standards.

Highly proficient in leveraging ERP systems such as SAP and Oracle to streamline procurement workflows and improve productivity. Demonstrated strength in risk management, process improvement, and cross-functional collaboration. Adept at building strategic supplier relationships, implementing procurement best practices, and delivering value through data-driven decisions.

Key Skills:

  • Expert negotiation skills for securing cost-effective contracts.
  • Strong decision-making abilities to optimize procurement outcomes.
  • Advanced procurement knowledge to manage complex supply chain operations.


Overview

19
19
years of professional experience
4
4
Languages

Work History

Procurement Officer

Ignition Group - Head Office
11.2022 - Current
  • Developed and strengthened supplier relationships.
  • Evaluated vendor performance regularly to maintain reliable supply chain operations and address issues promptly.
  • Maintained detailed records of all procurement activities for reference purposes as well as for auditing and compliance.
  • Managed procurement projects from initiation to completion, ensuring timely delivery of goods and services.
  • Achieved cost savings by conducting thorough market research before initiating the purchasing process.
  • Developed strong partnerships with vendors to secure favorable pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules.
  • Sourced high-quality products by establishing stringent selection criteria for potential suppliers based on quality, price, and service reputation.
  • Set up and negotiated contracts to obtain favorable pricing and delivery structures.
  • Managed database of vendor details and pricing information to maintain organization.
  • Reduced production downtime by overseeing quality control and assembly.
  • Negotiate contracts with vendors, securing best prices and terms for materials, equipment and services.
  • Input, analyzed and reported on data covering all aspects of procurement operations.
  • Conducted risk assessments for supply chain disruptions and implemented contingency plans accordingly to minimize impact on business operations.
  • Supported sustainability efforts within the organization by procuring environmentally friendly materials whenever possible.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current with industry best practices and continuously improve procurement skills.

Supply Chain Specialist

Amos Group
05.2019 - 10.2022
  • Led supply chain improvement efforts through management of carrier relationships, customs activities and international security measures.
  • Discovered most reliable and cost-effective shipping methods by analyzing previous shipment data.
  • Supervised quality control and reduced process lags to maximize revenue.
  • Improved consistency of on-time arrivals through effective logistics management and travel route planning.
  • Gathered and analyzed supplier, inventory and distribution data to assess areas in need of improvement.
  • Negotiated prices and terms with shipping companies and supply vendors.
  • Worked with suppliers to manage schedules, specifications and quality compliance.
  • Enforced safety protocols for proper equipment operation.
  • Maintained optimal inventory levels to meet operational requirements.
  • Oversaw and executed duties to manage client correspondence, scheduling and data communications.
  • Improved project efficiency by prioritizing equipment tasks and operation while adhering to safety protocols.
  • Improved quality assurance operations by inspecting materials and verifying delivery compliance.
  • Revised production schedules to meet dynamic conditions such as supply shortages and backlogs.
  • Oversaw supply chain and supported tech transfer projects, batch release testing, change management and resolution of customer complaints.
  • Negotiated with suppliers and vendors about contracts, policies and deadlines.
  • Negotiated contracts, policies and deadlines with suppliers and vendors.
  • Built supplier relationships to mitigate risk and establish effective purchasing arrangements with indirect and logistics customers.
  • Formulated demand planning and generated supply chain management metrics.
  • Monitored performance of external vendor supply chains while handling internal logistics.
  • Oversaw demand planning, purchasing and logistics.
  • Managed distribution network, logistics, trade compliance and warehouse management.
  • Managed production levels, identified material shortages and monitored inventory levels to meet order delivery requirements.
  • Identified, selected and maintained logistic suppliers and achieved optimum costs and service qualities.
  • Deployed logistics systems and outsourced transportation to maximize efficiency, cost and benefit.
  • Balanced demand and supply while aligning volume and mix to achieve production objectives.
  • Devised and implemented short-term and long-term plans, optimizing supply chain management and improving value relating to annual expenditures.
  • Implemented standard manufacturing system procedures and process practices.
  • Improved, standardized and documented planning and scheduling processes.
  • Established vision and master plan for regional supply chain end-to-end structure, sourcing and delivery.
  • Analyzed real-time customer histories to identify issues and anomalies before problems occurred.

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  • Resolved complex issues regarding material handling, mail distribution and inventory control, to increase profits.
  • Established effective communication channels between departments for seamless supply chain operations.
  • Maintained high levels of accuracy in managing purchase orders, invoices, and shipping documentation for audit purposes.
  • Collaborated with internal teams to improve outputs to meet demand and supply requirements, ensuring inventory integrity targets for finished goods.
  • Monitored and tracked supplier performance to enforce adherence to quality standards and established timelines.
  • Coordinated supply orders to meet consumer demand and minimize costs of storing and transporting goods.
  • Monitored supplier performance for compliance with contract terms and quality standards.
  • Forecasted and managed annual operating budget for every location.

Supply Chain Coordinator

Natal Portland Cement
05.2018 - 04.2019
  • Directed product flow throughout company.
  • Scheduled production plans according to customer needs and supply availability.
  • Resolved issues through negotiations and led contract compliance and vendor performance reviews.
  • Kept stock areas clean, tidy and organized according to facility requirements.
  • Completed frequent inventory counts and resolved discrepancies.
  • Managed complex equipment storage operations while effectively partnering with intermediary departments to complete projects.
  • Drove key performance indicators and continuous improvements throughout logistics and supplier operations.
  • Challenged teams to improve performance within distribution network to meet inventory targets.
  • Improved, standardized and documented planning and scheduling processes.
  • Oversaw day-to-day clinical contracting and resource utilization management functions.
  • Balanced demand and supply while aligning volume and mix to achieve production objectives.
  • Identified, selected and maintained logistic suppliers and achieved optimum costs and service qualities.
  • Negotiated with suppliers and vendors about contracts, policies and deadlines.
  • Collaborated with internal teams to improve outputs to meet demand and supply requirements, ensuring inventory integrity targets for finished goods.
  • Oversaw demand planning, purchasing and logistics.
  • Managed distribution network, logistics, trade compliance and warehouse management.
  • Led implementation of effective supply chain planning systems while improving sales and operations planning processes for distribution network.
  • Negotiated contracts, policies and deadlines with suppliers and vendors.
  • Established inventory targets, stock level and risk mitigation targets and managed flexibility strategy to optimize inventory.
  • Formulated demand planning and generated supply chain management metrics.
  • Implemented standard manufacturing system procedures and process practices.
  • Built supplier relationships to mitigate risk and establish effective purchasing arrangements with indirect and logistics customers.
  • Managed production levels, identified material shortages and monitored inventory levels to meet order delivery requirements.
  • Monitored performance of external vendor supply chains while handling internal logistics.
  • Oversaw supply chain and supported tech transfer projects, batch release testing, change management and resolution of customer complaints.
  • Capitalized on opportunities to make significant cost savings to areas of supplies, services and capital requirements when optimizing resource management for group purchasing organization (GPO) service line directors.
  • Deployed logistics systems and outsourced transportation to maximize efficiency, cost and benefit.

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Operations Dispatch Supervisor

South Coast Stone Crushers
07.2009 - 01.2011
  • Responded to high volume of phone and email requests to provide logistics information.
  • Developed understanding of transportation management platforms to drive content integration with client systems and platforms.
  • Partnered with vendor teams to solve real-time challenges and drive cohesive experience.
  • Developed and implemented process enhancements to drive continuous program improvement.
  • Assessed regulatory and operational risks for escalation to management.
  • Served as mediator when appropriate to settle conflicts and discrepancies between field personnel and management.
  • Facilitated communications between customers and field personnel to answer questions or resolve concerns.
  • Coordinated schedules for optimal coverage of daily workload and adjusted quickly to changing demands.
  • Monitored flow of paperwork and directed information to appropriate departments.
  • Coordinated repairs to vehicles to maintain fleet operations.
  • Ordered supplies and allocated resources to personnel based on need.
  • Received new orders, prepared documentation and assigned personnel.
  • Developed team communications and information for meetings.
  • Delivered exceptional level of service to each customer by listening to concerns and answering questions.
  • Completed paperwork, recognizing discrepancies and promptly addressing for resolution.
  • Participated in continuous improvement by generating suggestions, engaging in problem-solving activities to support teamwork.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.

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  • Used Microsoft Word and other software tools to create documents and other communications.
  • Actively listened to customers' requests, confirming full understanding before addressing concerns.
  • Led projects and analyzed data to identify opportunities for improvement.

Dispatch Clerk

Intercement
04.2008 - 06.2009
  • Maintained contact with units on assignment to provide further assistance and support when needed.
  • Handled complaints and inquiries from public to resolve or report to proper department.
  • Tracked call logs and shift data to enter into computer system.
  • Performed routine administrative work with customer assistance, cashiering, and data.
  • Directed investigations to verify and resolve customer or shipper complaints.
  • Maintained updated and detailed records of calls in physical and electronic database.
  • Processed orders, ran bulk pick sheets, processed and printed invoices and created daily shipping logs.
  • Implemented schedule and policy changes and collaborated with management to formulate new policies, procedures and goals.
  • Planned, organized and managed work of subordinate staff to accomplish consistent work within organizational standards.

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Supply Officer

Department Of Health
08.2007 - 03.2008
  • Forecasted requirements and set reorder points to maintain optimal levels.
  • Evaluated back stock and returned extra, sealed and salvageable goods to designated locations.
  • Purchased, organized and distributed supplies for maintenance activities and personnel use.
  • Handled maintenance reports for orders requested and completed.
  • Determined appropriate budget levels and administered expenditures.
  • Conducted research to address shipping errors and packaging mistakes.
  • Organized records of vehicles, schedules and completed orders.
  • Collaborated with manufacturing and supply chain management.
  • Prospected for leads to build pipeline and convert to sales opportunities.
  • Created and enforced detailed organization processes to increase quality and service standards.
  • Reduced worker accidents by implementing improved safety standards and monitoring procedures.
  • Led value-added customer service team that consistently over-delivered on customer expectations.
  • Integrated warehouse operations with existing and new business processes.
  • Expedited resolutions of shipping errors and packaging mistakes.
  • Formed strategic partnerships, established metrics and participated in complex negotiations.
  • Tracked production and quality control systems to proactively identify deficiencies.
  • Delivered substantial cost savings by securing discounts from third-party logistics services providers.
  • Directed inventory regulation processes and accounting input data processing and reviewed output records from supply systems.
  • Managed accurate files and implemented new organizational systems to improve traceability.

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Store Clerk

The Spar Group
12.2005 - 01.2007
  • Assisted customer by locating items, processing payments and carrying out heavy purchases.
  • Alternated goods in inventory by observing first-in and first-out approach to keep shelves organized and properly stocked.
  • Regularly assessed sales floor stock levels to replenish with backstock merchandise before depletion.
  • Kept documentation and records accurate and up-to-date with latest data to prevent errors in processing or delivery.
  • Managed pricing issues, removal of damaged products and placing special orders for customers.
  • Helped customers complete purchases, locate items and join reward programs.
  • Used hand-held devices and computers to record and monitor inventory levels and completed audits to uncover and address inaccuracies.
  • Answered questions about store policies and addressed customer concerns.
  • Checked packages and merchandise for damage and notified vendors.
  • Acknowledged safety issues and contacted shift supervisor regarding concerns and for quick resolution.
  • Replenished sales floor merchandise and organized shelves, racks and bins for optimal appearance.
  • Inspected work areas for cleanliness and obstacles and removed cartons and boxes to keep work areas organized and hazard-free.
  • Maintained accurate inventory records to provide data for use in audits and completion of order requests
  • Maintained customer satisfaction with quick and professional handling of product returns.
  • Simplified shipping and receiving processes for improved workflow.
  • Prepared merchandise for transfer to shelves by removing packing materials and applying identifying codes, such as price or inventory control numbers.
  • Estimated business demands and aligned operations with expected customer levels by restocking target items and verifying optimal levels of supplies such as bags and register tape.
  • Assisted customers by answering questions and fulfilling requests.
  • Promoted sales by merchandising products, completing recovery tasks and updating signage for special promotions.
  • Performed inventory control, such as counting and stocking merchandise.

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Education

Post Graduate Diploma : Supply Chain Management - Supply Chain Management

Regent Business School
Durban, South Africa
01.2021 - Current

No Degree - Procurement Management

Udemy
Distance Learning
04.2001 -

Certificate (NQF5) - Health And Safety

NOSA
Pinetown
06.2010 - 06.2010

B-TECH DEGREE - Public Management And Administration

Durban University of Technology
Durban
01.2004 - 12.2007

Senior Certificate - Matric

Amakholwa Secondary School
Pietermaritzburg
01.1998 - 12.2002

Skills

Vendor Management and Relationship Building

Contract Negotiation and Management

End-to-End Procure-to-Pay Process Management

Cost Optimization and Budget Management

Risk Management and Compliance

Process Improvement and Technology Utilization

Communication and Collaboration

Software

SAP Ariba- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems

Microsoft Dynamics 365- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems

Gatekeeper- Contract and Vendor Management Software

Power BI- Analytics and Business Intelligence Tools

Kissflow Procurement Cloud- Spend Analysis Tool

Interests

Strategic Sourcing and Vendor Management: Building and maintaining strong supplier relationships while identifying cost-saving opportunities

Process Optimization: Improving procurement and supply chain workflows using innovative tools and methodologies

Negotiation and Decision-Making: Crafting mutually beneficial agreements that align with business objectives

Sustainability and Ethical Procurement: Promoting sustainable sourcing practices that reduce environmental impact

Risk Management: Mitigating supply chain disruptions and ensuring business continuity

Technology in Procurement: Exploring and implementing advanced digital tools like ERP systems to enhance efficiency

Team Development: Mentoring and training teams to improve procurement performance

Timeline

Procurement Officer

Ignition Group - Head Office
11.2022 - Current

Post Graduate Diploma : Supply Chain Management - Supply Chain Management

Regent Business School
01.2021 - Current

Supply Chain Specialist

Amos Group
05.2019 - 10.2022

Supply Chain Coordinator

Natal Portland Cement
05.2018 - 04.2019

Certificate (NQF5) - Health And Safety

NOSA
06.2010 - 06.2010

Operations Dispatch Supervisor

South Coast Stone Crushers
07.2009 - 01.2011

Dispatch Clerk

Intercement
04.2008 - 06.2009

Supply Officer

Department Of Health
08.2007 - 03.2008

Store Clerk

The Spar Group
12.2005 - 01.2007

B-TECH DEGREE - Public Management And Administration

Durban University of Technology
01.2004 - 12.2007

No Degree - Procurement Management

Udemy
04.2001 -

Senior Certificate - Matric

Amakholwa Secondary School
01.1998 - 12.2002
Tholakele Prudence MzoloProcurement Specialist