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- Tasks: Join our team as a Materials Buyer, overseeing purchasing for award-winning developments.
- Company: Churchill Retirement PLC is the UK's fastest growing retirement house builder, family-run and award-winning.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like a company car, private medical insurance, and a day off on your birthday.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven company with ambitious growth plans and a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in construction and materials buying is essential; knowledge of contract law is a plus.
- Other info: This is a Fixed Term Contract role based in Byfleet, Surrey.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job title: Buyer
Location: Office based in Byfleet with travel to sites in the division as required
About the role
We’re looking for an experienced Buyer to work alongside our Commercial team in Byfleet to oversee our developments in our South East division.
You will be responsible for the cost effective and timely purchasing of all materials that are required for our award winning developments.
Forming good working relationships is an essential part of this role, as you will be working closely with the Commercial and Construction departments as well as the Finance and Technical teams.
You will also develop working relationships with external stakeholders such as all material suppliers and external consultants.
Your duties will include:
There’ll be considerable financial work in most aspects of the role, with sole responsibility for producing a monthly forecast report for the Board, as well as the usual budget preparation, scheduling and estimates.
Office hours are full-time, Monday to Thursday 9am to 5.30pm and Friday 9am to 5pm and you will be expected to make at least one visit to your sites per week.
About you
You’ll have a background in Construction, with previous experience as a Materials Buyer, preferably in residential development with experience in measuring drawings, preparing bills of quantities and using advanced procurement techniques.
It goes without saying that you will be able to read and understand architect drawings, specification documents and standard detail drawings.
It would be desirable if you had specific knowledge and experience of conventional 3-4 storey masonry construction, with an understanding of Contract law, together with a construction related qualification such as a HNC.
It’s important that you’re a commercially astute negotiator, self motivated, able to work under pressure and have the ability to prioritise your workload.
You must also have a valid UK driver’s license.
How you’ll be rewarded
About us
We are Churchill Living, the leading provider of housing that offers freedom, independence, and unrivalled living value for the over 60s, and we\’re looking for people like you!
As a family-run, privately-owned business we have a strong culture built on trust and integrity. We\’re proud of what we do, and the people we work with, and we believe in giving something back to the communities where we operate. Our success is built on our fantastic team of more than 700 colleagues across the country, which is growing all the time.
We pride ourselves on building beautiful, quality apartments in desirable locations across the country for those looking for greater freedom and independence. Our developments are designed to provide safety, support and a sense of community for our customers to enjoy, ensuring peace of mind for them and their families.
We are proud to have been voted a Sunday Times Top 10 \’Best Places to Work\’ based on our colleague feedback. Not only that, but we\’ve won a host of industry awards including the prestigious Housebuilder of the Year at the What House? awards.
If you would like to be part of an ambitious and successful business which values and appreciates its people. click apply today.
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Materials Buyer employer: Churchill Living Ltd
Contact Detail:
Churchill Living Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Churchill Retirement PLC's recent projects and developments. Understanding their unique selling points and the materials they typically use will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the construction and materials procurement sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues or suppliers who may provide insights into the company culture and expectations.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your negotiation skills, as this role requires a strong ability to negotiate order values and supply agreements. Consider role-playing scenarios with friends or colleagues to practice your approach and build confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with measuring drawings and preparing bills of quantities. Be ready to share specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your expertise and how it aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
We think you need these skills to ace Materials Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a Materials Buyer, particularly in residential development. Emphasise your skills in measuring drawings, preparing bills of quantities, and advanced procurement techniques.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Churchill Retirement PLC's mission and values. Mention your previous experience in construction and how it aligns with their goals for growth and quality.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as negotiation, financial forecasting, and relationship building with suppliers and stakeholders. These are crucial for the role and should be clearly articulated.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for a Materials Buyer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Churchill Living Ltd
✨Know Your Materials
As a Materials Buyer, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of the materials you'll be purchasing. Brush up on your knowledge of construction materials, their costs, and suppliers. This will not only help you answer technical questions but also demonstrate your expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Negotiation is a key part of the role. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully negotiated prices or contracts. Be ready to discuss your approach and how you achieved favourable outcomes for your previous employers.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Churchill Retirement PLC has ambitious growth plans. Familiarise yourself with their mission and values, and think about how your skills and experiences align with their goals. This will show your genuine interest in the company and its future.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Since the role involves considerable financial work, be prepared to discuss budgeting, forecasting, and cost management. Brush up on relevant financial terminology and be ready to explain how you've handled similar responsibilities in your previous roles.
