Instajobs | Recruitment agency in London | Instajobsuk recruitment agency for temporary and permanent staff | Local recruitment agency near me

Job Purpose

We have an excellent opportunity for an experienced Buyer, who will play a key role in sourcing, negotiating and ordering the materials, services and plant equipment required to support project delivery across Water, Transport, Energy and the Built Environment.

Working closely with site project teams, regional support teams and fellow procurement professionals, you will help deliver a best-in-class procurement service focused on timely, cost-effective and compliant supply solutions. This is a fast-paced role that requires strong supplier relationship management, commercial awareness and the ability to support procurement activity without compromising on quality, compliance or service.

You will also work with stakeholders at all levels to ensure procurement activity aligns with project programmes, budgets and the organisation’s sustainable procurement objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Buying activities

• Procure construction materials and related services across operational sectors.
• Carry out supplier selection, evaluate quotations and negotiate prices and logistics.
• Identify market trends, product developments, industry changes and supply chain innovations through engagement with external partners, supporting the Senior Buyer on specific commodities or categories as directed.
• Provide commercial support on the contracts you are procuring for.
• Liaise with sites and supply chain partners to develop strong relationships and ensure a planned, right-first-time service is delivered in relation to safety, quality, programme, commercial requirements and overall best value.
• Support internal business needs in relation to commercial and product awareness at all stages of the construction process.
• Maintain regular communication with team members to review contract progress and address issues promptly.
• Ensure a clear understanding of purchasing strategy and processes to maintain a professional and auditable procurement process.

Accountabilities

• Work within financial governance levels.
• Manage priorities effectively and improve efficiencies.
• Support Trainee and Assistant Buyers to aid growth and development.
• Maintain positive supplier relationships.
• Adhere to procurement procedures at all times.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate order and supply chain records using the company’s purchase order system and procedures.
• Provide reports, data and supporting material requested by the Senior Buyer, including KPI information.
• Prepare detailed analysis for regional buyers and site teams for approval.

Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant experience in a similar role, ideally within the Water Industry, Rail or construction/engineering sector.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build long-term, collaborative supplier relationships.
• Demonstrable commercial awareness, with the ability to control and monitor budgets.
• Confident communication skills with both internal and external stakeholders, including a professional telephone manner.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and in-house purchasing systems.
• Able to work effectively in a demanding, fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• Able to use initiative, make decisions and work well as part of a team.
• Excellent attention to detail, particularly around contractual obligations and order placement.

Desirable

• CIPS qualification, or working towards CIPS.
• Relevant degree, or equivalent demonstrable experience.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office.
• Full UK driving licence.