Senior Buyer

Fawkes and Reece; Maidstone; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000

Job description

Reference: 9464664_1742387133
Posted: March 19, 2025

As a Buyer you will be responsible for supporting the continued rapid growth and expansion of my client, through sourcing and procuring materials, equipment, and services across multiple divisions within the group.

The Buyer will work as part of and support the purchasing team to achieve set targets - achieved via targeted researching, selection, and purchasing of quality products and materials to support our ambitious business plans in line with the wider Procurement strategy.

The role will also focus on supplier relationship management to enhance partnerships and ensure sustainable procurement practices that align with the company's corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental objectives.

This is an exciting and dynamic opportunity for a procurement professional who wants to see the tangible effects their efforts have on favourable business outcomes, working collaboratively with other like-minded individuals towards a common goal. Those with strong negotiation and supplier management skills will flourish, particularly if you have a keen interest in construction-specific procurement frameworks.

Requirements

Experience

1. Proven experience in construction materials procurement, ideally within the new build housing sector
2. Experience in multi-sector procurement, supporting diverse business needs within a multi-division company
3. Strong understanding of supply chain management and logistics across different types of projects
4. Excellent negotiation and communication skills to manage supplier relationships effectively
5. Ability to work under pressure and adapt to a fast-moving business environment
6. Commercially astute with a keen eye for cost control, value engineering, and process improvements
7. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a dynamic procurement team
8. Excellent attention to detail and high standards for quality control

Accountabilities

1. Procurement Across Divisions - Source, procure, and manage materials, equipment, and services across multiple business divisions, including new build housing, ensuring the best value and quality
2. Supplier & Contract Negotiation - Obtain quotes, negotiate pricing, and secure agreements that meet both divisional and group-wide procurement objectives
3. Project Coordination - Work closely with site teams and managers from different divisions to ensure materials are delivered in line with project schedules
4. Cost Control & Analysis - Conduct cost analysis, identify savings opportunities, and contribute to procurement strategies that enhance efficiency across the group
5. Supply Chain Management - Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships, ensuring timely and cost-effective procurement for various business units
6. Process & Compliance - Prepare and raise purchase orders, resolve invoice queries, and ensure all materials meet required specifications and quality standards
7. Market Awareness - Stay informed about industry trends, pricing fluctuations, and potential supply chain risks across different sectors
8. Wider Procurement Contribution - Support and influence group-wide procurement initiatives, working with other divisions to align purchasing strategies, drive efficiencies, and implement best practices
9. Continuous Improvement - Collaborate with the Procurement Manager to refine procurement processes and enhance cost-saving opportunities across all business units
10. Compliance & Safety - Ensure adherence to Health, Safety, and Environmental Policies

Qualifications

1. CIPS qualification (or working towards) is desirable
2. Commitment to Continuous Professional Development