Sthandiwe Manceda

Results-driven Senior Procurement and Sourcing Professional with over 13 years of experience in strategic purchasing, supplier relationship management, contract negotiations, import procurement and inventory optimisation across automotive, industrial, manufacturing, and fleet industries. Proven ability to deliver cost savings, negotiate favourable commercial terms, improve supplier performance, and ensure supply continuity. Experienced in managing complex procurement activities, leading sourcing initiatives, supporting BBBEE objectives, and collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders to achieve business objectives.

Currently completing the CIPS Diploma to further strengthen strategic procurement expertise

Procurement Specialist (Manager) at Bluu Car Rental (Pty)Ltd (2025-07 – Present)

• Lead end-to-end strategic sourcing initiatives (RFX) aligned with business objectives and cost optimization targets
• Manage contract lifecycle, including negotiation, drafting, and performance monitoring
• Oversee supplier onboarding, due diligence, and ongoing supplier relationship management
• Drive supplier performance through structured engagement and continuous improvement initiatives
• Focus on strategic procurement activities, while transactional procurement is managed by the Operations team
• Develop and implement procurement strategies that support BBBEE objectives, including the identification, development, and utilization of qualifying suppliers
• Monitor supplier BBBEE compliance and maintain supplier databases to support preferential procurement targets and transformation initiatives
• Ensure procurement activities adhere to internal governance frameworks, regulatory requirements, and BBBEE legislation

Senior Procurement Officer (Team Lead) at Barloworld Equipment (Pty) Ltd (2020-04 – 2025-06)

• Lead and manage a team of 4 Procurement Officers, ensuring effective performance, distribution of workload, and development
• Oversee tactical procurement and day-to-day operations, ensuring timely and cost-effective sourcing of goods and services
• Drive sourcing activities across business units, ensuring compliance with procurement policies and procedures
• Negotiate supplier pricing and commercial terms within defined thresholds to achieve cost savings
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, driving performance and continuous improvement
• Align procurement activities with internal stakeholder requirements and operational needs
• Support BBBEE and preferential procurement objectives through supplier engagement, BBBEE certificate verification, and spend analysis
• Monitor and report on procurement spend against BBBEE targets, identifying opportunities to increase procurement from qualifying and black-owned suppliers
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure procurement activities contribute to supplier development and transformation goals
• Ensure compliance with company governance standards, procurement controls, audit requirements, and BBBEE legislative requirements

Imports Procurement Officer at AL-KO Trailco (DexKo Group) (2013-11 – 2020-04)

• Managed end-to-end import procurement, ensuring alignment with demand forecasts and operational requirements
• Oversaw inbound logistics, customs clearance, and freight management, optimising costs through consolidation and improved transit efficiency
• Participated in Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) processes, analysing demand trends and adjusting procurement plans accordingly
• Proactively mitigated stock shortages and excess inventory through effective planning and corrective action
• Maintained optimal inventory levels to balance service delivery and working capital efficiency
• Developed and managed supplier and logistics partner relationships, ensuring reliability and alternative sourcing strategies
• Negotiated pricing, lead times, and service levels to support cost reduction and performance improvement
• Ensured full compliance with regulatory requirements by managing NRCS, ITAC and SABS processes, including permits, homologation, and import documentation

Project Buyer (Contract) at Kwikspace Modular Buildings (2013-05 – 2013-09)

• Managed procurement for project-based requirements, ensuring timely sourcing and cost control within project budgets
• Led supplier sourcing and selection, negotiating pricing, lead times, and contract terms to support project delivery
• Worked closely with project teams to align procurement activities with project timelines and operational needs
• Ensured availability of materials and services to meet project deadlines and client expectations
• Maintained compliance with procurement procedures and quality standards
• Monitored supplier performance and resolved delivery or quality issues to minimize project delays

Procurement Administrator / Buyer at Wilec Industrial (Actom Group) (2010-03 – 2013-04)

• Managed local and international procurement of raw materials, consumables, and finished goods to support production requirements
• Performed procurement administration for import buying, including documentation, order tracking, and coordination with suppliers and logistics providers
• Coordinated interbranch stock transfers to optimise inventory levels and ensure product availability across locations
• Ensured timely delivery of goods to maintain production continuity and minimum stock levels
• Monitored purchase orders and maintained accurate procurement records
• Liaised with internal stakeholders to align procurement activities with operational needs
• Supported inventory planning and stock control, reducing shortages and operational disruptions
• Built and maintained effective supplier relationships, ensuring quality and reliability of supply
• Progressed from intern to permanent role based on strong performance and work ethic

Diploma in Procurement and Supply – Chartered Institution of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)

Degree in Bcom Economics: International trade and marketing – North-West University (2009)

Grade 12 – Thamsanqa Secondary School (2003)