At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for Sizewell C, shaping the UK's energy future with low-carbon electricity.
- Company: Join the Civil Works Alliance, a collaborative team of industry leaders.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace that values creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable energy while developing your career in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in complex procurement processes and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Help shape the UK's energy future with the Civil Works Alliance (CWA), supporting Sizewell C. As part of the CWA, you will support the building of Sizewell C, a 3.2-gigawatt power station generating low-carbon electricity for around 6 million homes and playing a key role in our energy future.
This role will be within the Enabling and Earthwork Section.
What will you do?
The Senior Buyer will be primarily accountable for the management of the end-to-end procurement activities for the sourcing of subcontract packages. Activities will include:
- Compiling procurement strategies
- Preparation of RFQs/ITTs
- Management and evaluation of returns
- Making sourcing recommendations to award contracts
Key Responsibilities
- Development and delivery of procurement strategies for project-wide and/or high-value packages
- Implementation of procurement strategies and processes
- Carrying out the procurement process for complex packages in accordance with procurement and supply chain management strategies
- Establishing project governance
- Leading the co-ordination of the commercial and technical reviews of tender returns
- Working with commercial teams in contract negotiation and carrying out commercial checks for suppliers and past performance
- Robust and complete recommendations for formal award approval(s)
- Drafting, issuing and execution of contracts, in accordance with project procurement guidelines and governance
- Development of the project supplier database, market assessments; track effectiveness of engagement; prequalification status; and bid support performance
- Development of local, diverse and SME engagement strategies
- Assist in hosting Meet the Buyer Events and community advertising
- Support the development of the Local Sustainable Procurement Plan through liaison with Parent Company experts
- Apply a consistent approach to the responsible procurement of goods and services, ensuring compliance with professional standards, current legislation, and nuclear regulations
- Supply chain performance management and reporting
What are we looking for?
Knowledge & Skills Essential:
- Demonstrable understanding of procurement and commercial principles
- Negotiation skills
- Thorough understanding of legal & contracting law
- Excellent supplier relationship management
- Risk & opportunity management skills
- Thorough understanding of project procurement strategies
- Product knowledge
- High attention to detail, ability to adopt and learn at a phase, clearly and consistently articulate and update agreed strategy
- Excellent analytical skills, strong commercial awareness, a measured approach to decision making and the ability to ensure best value procurement
- The ability to adopt a pragmatic, yet disciplined approach to process compliance
Experience & Qualifications Essential:
- Substantial experience of complex procurement processes within a construction or major projects related environment
- Experience in design and delivery of category and/or procurement package strategies to a high and consistent level
- Proven track record in managing supplier relationships, negotiation and process compliance
Key Behavioural Competencies
- Humility: Recognises the value brought from different cultures and experiences. Open to others' points of view and ideas, willing to debate and to compromise.
- Positivity: Positively challenges poor quality and performance. Identifies solutions at the lowest possible level. Encourages tier 1s and others to bring new ideas forward.
- Respect: Values the rules and environment in which we operate. Gives and receives feedback with respect. Embraces and engages with new people and ideas.
- Solidarity: Operates as one team, working closely together and helping each other. Empowers team-empowered teams always looking forward. Shares responsibility for delivering the project outcomes.
- Clarity: Communicates clearly and consistently. Promotes collaboration and team alignment. Clear and fast decision making. Drives simplification at all levels.
What we will offer you?
The CWA is a single delivery organisation made up of the client (Sizewell C) and three parent companies - Balfour Beatty, Bouygues and Laing O'Rourke - which offer industry-leading packages including market-leading salaries, generous annual leave entitlements, pension scheme and other flexible benefits.
About Us
The CWA celebrates the creativity and innovation that comes from a diverse workforce, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, especially those from under-represented communities. Our project is built on five core values: Humility, Positivity, Respect, Solidarity, and Clarity. By joining us, you'll be encouraged to bring your whole self to work, speak up, and share your ideas. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.
We are committed to protecting your privacy. If you decide to apply, please avoid including sensitive personal data in your CV.
Senior Buyer in London employer: CWA: Civil Works Alliance
CWA: Civil Works Alliance is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in the engineering sector. Employees benefit from comprehensive growth opportunities and the chance to contribute to a landmark project that will play a crucial role in the UK's transition to sustainable energy. Located in Leiston, Suffolk, this position not only provides a meaningful career path but also allows you to be part of a team dedicated to shaping a greener future for millions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer in London
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like CWA: Civil Works Alliance.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to CWA: Civil Works Alliance:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to CWA: Civil Works Alliance. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like CWA: Civil Works Alliance.
How to prepare for a job interview at CWA: Civil Works Alliance
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at CWA: Civil Works Alliance!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at CWA: Civil Works Alliance. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into CWA: Civil Works Alliance's culture.
