Procurement Officer

Procurement is a function of the supply chain and therefore falls within the broader scope of supply chain management that covers a number of disciplines and occupations in the fields of procurement, logistics and sales.

The importance of a progression path in support of continuous professional development within the supply chain, aligned to requirements of international professional bodies in this sector, becomes increasingly important in a global environment.

It therefore became necessary to ensure better alignment with international requirements as well as the need for better integration between the various supply chain components during the revision of the current South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) registered qualification 91788: Occupational Certificate: Purchasing Officer.

This revised qualification reflects the needs of the international professional bodies and focuses on the development and coordinated implementation of operational schedules with regard to purchasing and supply.

Qualified Procurement Officers are critical to the on-going performance and improvement of procurement functions in both the public and private sectors. On completion of the qualification job opportunities would be available in both the public and private sector locally and internationally and provide opportunities for career pathways and life-long learning in the supply chain.

Target groups identified include learners with an NQF Level 5 qualification or persons who have been working in the supply chain in the fields of purchasing and/or supply and who want to formalise their skills and knowledge.

Employers in both the public and private sector will benefit from appointing qualified workers with relevant and current competencies in purchasing and supply. Qualified workers will contribute to increased productivity and legislative compliance.