POSITION: Senior Administrator: Procurement
EMPLOYER: Rhodes University
Makhanda, Eastern Cape
Closing Date: 23 May 2025
ABOUT THE EMPLOYER
Rhodes University is more than just an academic institution — it’s a cornerstone of higher education in South Africa, known for producing critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and globally impactful graduates. Situated in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), this institution is built on core values such as diversity, integrity, respect, excellence, collegiality, and compassion. It actively promotes equity and transformation and encourages people with disabilities and members of designated groups to apply. Rhodes is also deeply committed to sustainability, community engagement, and institutional transparency.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
In this role, the successful candidate will:
🔹 Manage and update the supplier database, ensuring full compliance with procurement policies.
🔹 Act as the primary liaison with service providers to ensure quality, delivery, and service compliance.
🔹 Process requisitions for non-asset goods and services swiftly and accurately.
🔹 Provide functional support to departments using the procurement system.
🔹 Monitor supplier performance, vetting and reporting accordingly.
🔹 Reconcile supplier accounts and ensure procurement records are accurate.
🔹 Supervise junior staff within the procurement unit.
🔹 Identify process gaps and recommend improvements aligned with university goals.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
A relevant degree or national higher diploma (NQF Level 7) in fields such as Supply Chain Management, Accounting, or Business Administration.
Approximately 6 years of relevant work experience, which must include:
• Procurement/purchasing administration
• Exposure to Oracle Cloud Finance System (advantageous)
• Previous experience working with accounts and account reconciliation
Highly computer literate — Word, Excel, email, internet
Strong written and verbal communication
Experience in both electronic and paper-based admin systems
Minimum of 2 years in a supervisory role
REMUNERATION
Basic Pensionable Salary per year (Grade 13): R539,568
Cost to Company (Approx.): R710,658
APPLICATION PROCESS
Candidates must submit the following:
- A detailed CV with reasons for leaving previous jobs
- Names and contact info of referees (preferably former direct managers)
- A strong motivational letter explaining your interest and suitability
Applications must be submitted online — handwritten submissions will not be accepted.
SELECTION PROCESS
Shortlisting: 24 June 2025
Interview & Assessment: Dates to be communicated to shortlisted candidates
Enquiries: Contact 046 603 8753
DIVERSITY MATTERS
Rhodes University actively supports transformation in South Africa and strongly encourages women, persons with disabilities, and members of historically disadvantaged communities to apply. The appointment aligns with the Employment Equity Act and Immigration Act.
Apply early — the university reserves the right to close the advert before the deadline if many applications are received.
If you don’t hear back within 30 days of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.