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- Tasks: Join our team as a Buyer, managing procurement and supplier relationships in construction.
- Company: Criterion Capital is a dynamic developer transforming properties into residential and hotel spaces.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects while honing your negotiation and financial skills in a fast-paced setting.
- Qualifications: 2+ years of buying experience in construction; relevant qualifications are a plus but not essential.
- Other info: A proactive mindset and excellent communication skills are key to thriving in this role.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Piccadilly Construction, our in-house Contraction Management Team, is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Buyer/Senior Buyer to assist with the purchasing and procurement. This role requires someone to assist the Procurement Manager in the buying arrangements in respect of our construction and maintenance activities.
- Negotiate the best possible supply chain arrangements with key materials suppliers.
- Develop long-term strategic relationships with suppliers to ensure economies of scale are maximized.
- Schedule and place material and plant orders optimizing cost and quality.
- Check Architects/Engineers drawings for discrepancies and compliance with the required material specification, resolving any queries with the relevant consultants/architects team.
- Produce material cost schedules and budgets for new projects and monitor material costs to ensure budgets are not exceeded.
- Produce schedules for material enquiries, sending to suppliers for costing and assessing quotations and suppliers' schedules to ensure they are correct.
- Project and report material cost increases as they arise.
- Resolve invoice queries with the accounts team.
- Carry out material on-site checks and produce reports as required.
- Attend sites frequently to ensure there are no problems with supplies/materials.
- Negotiate arrangements with suppliers and raise orders for the wider business as required including for property maintenance, sales and marketing where value may be added from strategic procurement.
- Maintain effective relationships to ensure the successful delivery of projects with all relevant stakeholders including contractors and suppliers, in-house teams, consultants and specialist advisors as required.
About You:
- A demonstrable understanding of construction industry procurement.
- Knowledge of how to deliver an effective buying function in the construction industry.
- A good understanding of the materials supply chain.
- A ‘can-do’ attitude with a willingness to challenge conventional thinking.
- A pro-active, positive thinking, commercially minded approach with the ability to work at pace.
- Excellent financial and numerical skills including budget and cashflow management.
- Excellent negotiation skills.
- Good communication skills (written, oral).
- Ability to plan and prioritise workloads.
- Ability to control and manage costs.
- A minimum of 2 years experience of buying within a construction business.
- A relevant qualification is desirable but not essential.
Criterion Capital is an entrepreneurial hands-on developer and asset manager of Residential, Hotel, and Commercial properties. We have a vertically integrated platform of sector specialists that convert end of life buildings to residential and hotel uses.
Contact Detail:
Criterion Capital Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the construction industry's supply chain and procurement processes. Understanding how materials are sourced and the key players involved will give you an edge in discussions and negotiations.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the construction sector, especially those involved in procurement. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build relationships that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your negotiation skills. Consider role-playing scenarios with friends or colleagues to practice negotiating terms with suppliers, as this is a crucial part of the Buyer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on market trends and material costs in the construction industry. Being knowledgeable about current pricing and availability will help you make informed decisions and demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and buying within the construction industry. Emphasise any specific achievements or projects that demonstrate your negotiation skills and understanding of the materials supply chain.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your proactive attitude and ability to challenge conventional thinking. Mention your experience with budget management and how you can contribute to the success of Piccadilly Construction's procurement team.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your financial and numerical skills, as well as your excellent communication abilities. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed costs and resolved issues in previous roles.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the construction industry's procurement processes. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that align with the requirements of the Buyer role, even if they are not essential.
How to prepare for a job interview at Criterion Capital
✨Understand the Construction Procurement Process
Familiarise yourself with the specific procurement processes in the construction industry. Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences and how they relate to the role, especially in negotiating with suppliers and managing costs.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of successful negotiations you've conducted in the past. Highlight how you achieved cost savings or improved supplier relationships, as this will demonstrate your ability to add value to the company.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since the role involves checking drawings for discrepancies, be ready to discuss how you ensure accuracy in your work. You might want to mention any tools or methods you use to maintain high standards in procurement.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be prepared to answer questions about how you manage relationships with various stakeholders in a project.
