At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement of materials and manage supplier relationships for new home developments.
- Company: Join a leading housebuilding division with a focus on teamwork and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, flexible working, and 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for training and progression.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the construction sector while developing your skills and career.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying or procurement; strong communication and IT skills required.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Elvet Recruitment have been appointed to recruit for an Assistant Buyer role supporting the Commercial team in a regional housebuilding division. An Assistant Buyer will support procurement of materials and hired plant for regional new-home developments, managing budgets, orders and supplier relationships to deliver projects on time and to cost. Reporting to the Commercial Manager; office based with travel across the divisional area.
Main duties will include:
- Procurement support — assist with purchasing directly bought materials and hired plant to meet regional forecasts.
- Take-offs and scheduling — perform material take-offs from working drawings and prepare schedules where required.
- Order management — place bulk material orders and process site-generated requisitions.
- Supplier liaison — negotiate and work with suppliers to secure best value and manage relationships.
- Budget monitoring — assist in preparing and updating materials budgets for individual developments.
- KPI reporting — help produce KPI reports such as site damage, plant use and site waste.
- Compliance — ensure adherence to the organisation’s procurement procedures.
- Workload management — manage daily/weekly tasks and priorities effectively.
- Site travel — visit development sites as required to support procurement activity.
To be considered, applicants should have:
- Experience — previous buying or procurement role with knowledge of take-offs, schedules and budgets; construction sector experience preferred.
- Qualifications — current CSCS card (or equivalent); GCSE English and Mathematics grade A–C/4 or equivalent.
- Education — HNC or degree in a relevant subject desirable but not essential if equivalent experience is demonstrated.
- Skills — strong communication and listening; excellent attention to detail; IT literate with proficiency in MS Word and Excel and ability to adapt to new systems.
- Behaviours — ability to work independently and as part of a team; able to meet deadlines under pressure; committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Flexibility — willing to be flexible with day-to-day duties and working hours.
Benefits include:
- Pay and reward — competitive salary; competitive annual bonus; competitive car allowance; optional salary sacrifice car scheme.
- Pension and protection — contributory pension scheme; life assurance.
- Leave and flexibility — 25 days holiday plus bank holidays; holiday purchase scheme; flexible working considered.
- Perks — access to discounts and benefits portal; ShareSave scheme; Cycle to Work scheme.
- Development — Earn and Learn opportunities and ongoing training and progression.
Please call or email Michael Dufferwiel at Elvet Recruitment to discuss in more detail.
Assistant Buyer in Durham employer: Elvet Recruitment
Elvet Recruitment is an excellent employer for those seeking a rewarding career as an Assistant Buyer in the housebuilding sector. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive benefits including a generous holiday allowance and flexible working options, and a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion, this role offers a unique opportunity to grow within a dynamic team while contributing to impactful regional projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer in Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the construction and procurement sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around procurement and supplier management. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the best choice.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Assistant Buyer role! We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application stand out. Let’s get you that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer in Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Buyer role. Highlight your experience in procurement, budgets, and supplier relationships. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, be sure to showcase any previous buying or procurement roles you've had. Mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage budgets and supplier relationships.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Elvet Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Assistant Buyer, you'll be dealing with budgets and procurement. Brush up on your financial skills and be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past. Be specific about figures and outcomes to show you can handle the financial side of the role.
✨Master the Art of Negotiation
Supplier relationships are key in this role. Prepare examples of successful negotiations you've conducted before. Think about what strategies worked for you and how you secured the best value for your previous employers.
✨Get Familiar with Take-offs and Schedules
Since you'll be performing material take-offs and preparing schedules, make sure you understand these processes inside out. Bring examples of past projects where you’ve done this, and be ready to explain your approach and any tools you used.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Strong communication is essential for liaising with suppliers and team members. Prepare to demonstrate your listening skills and how you ensure clarity in your communications. Consider sharing a time when effective communication led to a successful outcome.
