We are working with a well-established, family-run main contractor based in Oxfordshire, specialising in high-end residential new-build and refurbishment projects for private clients. Due to continued growth, they are looking to recruit an Assistant Buyer to join their team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in buying, purchasing or materials procurement who understands the importance of sourcing quality products at competitive prices without compromising on specification or finish. Working across prestigious residential projects, you will be responsible for assisting with the purchasing of construction materials, identifying reliable suppliers and sourcing bespoke products and specialist finishes to meet the expectations of private clients. You will work closely with the company directors on a daily basis, gaining valuable insight into the business and its projects. With the company continuing to grow, there is genuine scope to develop your skills and progress your career within the business. Key Responsibilities: * Assisting with the purchasing of materials for high-end residential new-build and refurbishment projects. * Sourcing materials, products and specialist finishes in line with project specifications. * Obtaining and comparing supplier quotations to ensure competitive pricing and value for money. * Identifying and building relationships with reliable suppliers and specialist manufacturers. * Sourcing bespoke and premium-quality materials to meet individual client requirements. * Raising and monitoring purchase orders, tracking deliveries and managing lead times. * Liaising with suppliers, subcontractors, site teams and company directors to ensure materials are available when required. * Supporting the wider team with day-to-day purchasing and procurement activities. The Ideal Candidate: * Previous experience in an Assistant Buyer, Buyer, Purchasing Assistant or Procurement Assistant role. * Ideally, experience within construction, residential development, refurbishment or a related industry. * Good knowledge of construction materials, suppliers and purchasing processes. * An appreciation for high-quality materials, bespoke finishes and the attention to detail required on premium residential projects. * Strong communication, organisational and negotiation skills. * A proactive and commercially minded approach, with the ability to manage multiple requirements. * A willingness to learn, develop and build a long-term career within a growing business. What's on Offer? * The opportunity to join an established, family-run main contractor. * Involvement in prestigious, high-end residential projects across Oxfordshire. * Direct daily exposure to company directors and key business decisions. * Genuine opportunities for career development and progression as the business grows. * A varied role within a company that values quality, craftsmanship and attention to detail. If you have a background in buying, purchasing or procurement and are looking to develop your career within the high-end residential construction sector, we would love to hear from you. Apply today to find out more
Assistant Buyer in Oxford employer: City Site Solutions Ltd
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer in Oxford
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like City Site Solutions Ltd, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Assistant Buyer at City Site Solutions Ltd.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at City Site Solutions Ltd
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
