Help Shape the UK’s Energy Future Construction Senior Procurement Manager Opportunity with the Civil Works Alliance (CWA), Supporting Sizewell C As part of the CWA (Civil Works Alliance), you will support the building of Sizewell C. Sizewell C will be a 3.2-gigawatt power station generating low-carbon electricity for around 6 million homes and will play a key role in our energy future, supplying reliable, clean electricity for at least 60 years. This role will be within the Marine and Tunnels Section. What will you do? SZC is ultimately owned by two shareholders, EDF and HMG. The shareholders hold their investment in SZC through NNB Holdings Company (SZC) Limited. The principal objectives of the current development phase of the SZC project are to agree and implement the Capital Raise Plan, including completing an equity and debt raise, agree the core supply chain contracts and obtain the regulatory permits and licences required for the construction phase of the Project (including the core environmental permits and nuclear site licence). Prior to the government investment decision SZC operated as part of EDF in the Nuclear Development business unit and was staffed by EDF colleagues and independent contractors who are now in the process of transferring to the direct employment of SZC. It is setting itself up as an organisation capable of delivering a new nuclear power plant, from investment case and funding, to construction, commissioning, operations, maintenance and decommissioning. EDF will be an important supplier of nuclear capability for the SZC Programme from its established nuclear business footprint in the UK. Key stakeholders are UK Government, relevant Government departments and agencies including Treasury BEIS, EDF, Financial investors and institutions, Regulators, Alliance partners and local communities. Principal Accountabilities, Activities and Decisions Implement the Contracting Strategy and Delivery & Contracting Plan as directed by Procurement Lead Deliver Procurement and Supply Chain commitments within the Programme Alliance Agreement Working with peers to leverage opportunities to mitigate market risk and impact and deliver project wide efficiencies across all aspects of procurement and supply chain management. Develop strategic and tactical plans to ensure the Project has the appropriate supply chain resources in place to support current and forecasted levels. Ensure that supply chain performance meets or exceeds the operational and commercial requirements of the business. Deliver exceptional levels of operational and financial performance in the supply chain, with particular emphasis on project delivery and total supply chain cost efficiencies. Lead important negotiations, to ensure the most effective commercial outcomes and to eliminate/manage risk effectively. Support the procurement and estimating teams with tendering, market analysis, supplier selection, risk and opportunity assessments, forecasting requirements. Attract, build, develop and retain the right sized team with the right mindset to deliver the procurement and supply chain requirements across the CWA creating an inclusive and progressive culture for our people. Support training & development, staff appraisals, retention & reward, and recruitment to provide an effective procurement service for the project. Provide an ethical and consistent approach to the procurement of goods and services and ensuring compliance with the project governance and procurement best practice throughout the process to meet current legislation and nuclear regulations. Develop the project supplier database linked to Compete For – include market assessments, track effectiveness of engagement, prequalification status, and bid support performance. Monitor markets and where appropriate, provide alternative procurement strategies to maximise opportunities or minimise risk. Develop professional, robust and effective working relationships with suppliers, sub-contractors and service providers, who will provide best value to SZC. Assist in the development of local, diverse and SME engagement strategies assist in hosting Meet the Buyer Events and community advertising. Lead the implementation the Sustainable Procurement Plan Ensure a relentless focus on “Zero Harm”. What are we looking for? Knowledge & Skills Essential • Negotiation skills • Legal & contracting law • Supplier relationship management • Risk & opportunity management • Project procurement strategy • Supply chain planning & logistics • Product knowledge Desirable • Project management • Nuclear culture / behaviours • Commercial & business acumen • Client & stakeholder management • People management • Social sustainability Qualifications & Experience Essential • Experience of working within the construction industry and demonstrated knowledge of the interfaces and relationships that exist. • Demonstrates the ability to manage, plan and structure operational procurement resources of mixed experience and capability. • Good communication skills (verbal & written) • Delivering robust procurement strategies • A measured approach to decision making and the ability to ensure best value procurement. • Ability to focus on the targets and work well under pressure with tight deadlines. • Has delivered demonstrable added value through their procurement activity. Desirable • Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS) or chartership with another construction focused Institute (i.e., CIOB or RICS) • Industry qualification obtained - Diploma Level 4, or HNC in Building Studies, or Degree qualification. What we will offer you? The CWA is a single delivery organisation made of 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
Construction Senior Procurement Manager employer: CWA
As an Environment & Sustainability Manager with the Civil Works Alliance, you will be part of a pioneering project that shapes the UK's energy future through the construction of Sizewell C, a low-carbon power station. The CWA fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, offering competitive salaries, generous leave, and opportunities for professional growth while championing diversity and innovation. Join us to make a meaningful impact in sustainability and enjoy a supportive environment that values your contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Senior Procurement Manager
✨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 CWA, 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 Construction Senior Procurement Manager at CWA.
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 CWA
✨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!
