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- Tasks: Assist in purchasing and procurement for construction projects, ensuring cost-effective supply chain arrangements.
- Company: Join Criterion Capital, 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 a proactive team that values innovation and strategic relationships in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: 2+ years of buying experience in construction; strong negotiation and financial skills are essential.
- Other info: A relevant qualification is a plus, but not mandatory; a positive attitude is key!
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
Piccadilly Construction, our in-house Contraction Management Team, is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Buyer/Assistant 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. Thereafter 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 supplier's 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
- To maintain effective relationships in order to ensure the successful delivery of projects with all relevant stakeholders including contractors and suppliers, In-house teams, consultants and specialist advisors as required
- Other duties as required by the employer
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
- Skills
- 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.
Construction Buyer employer: Criterion Capital
Contact Detail:
Criterion Capital Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in construction procurement. Understanding how new materials and methods can impact costs and efficiency will give you an edge in discussions with suppliers.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the construction industry, especially those involved in procurement. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build relationships that could lead to valuable insights and opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your negotiation skills. Practice scenarios where you negotiate terms with suppliers, focusing on achieving the best possible arrangements while maintaining strong relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay organised and develop a system for tracking material costs and supplier performance. This will not only help you manage budgets effectively but also demonstrate your proactive approach to potential employers.
We think you need these skills to ace Construction Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in construction procurement. Emphasise any specific projects you've worked on, particularly those 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 specific examples from your past experience that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your financial and numerical skills, as well as your excellent communication abilities. Use bullet points to make these stand out, ensuring they match the skills required for the role.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the construction industry and procurement processes. You could include insights about current trends or challenges in the sector, showing that you are informed and engaged with the field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Criterion Capital
✨Showcase Your Industry Knowledge
Make sure to demonstrate your understanding of the construction industry's procurement processes. Be prepared to discuss specific materials, suppliers, and any relevant regulations that impact purchasing decisions.
✨Highlight Your Negotiation Skills
Since negotiation is a key part of this role, come equipped with examples of successful negotiations you've conducted in the past. Discuss how you achieved cost savings or improved supplier relationships through effective negotiation tactics.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to reading and interpreting architectural and engineering drawings. Brush up on your ability to identify discrepancies and compliance issues, as well as how you would resolve them with consultants.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Approach
The job requires a proactive mindset, so be ready to share instances where you've taken initiative in previous roles. Discuss how you’ve managed costs, optimised supply chains, or improved processes to ensure project success.
