At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to manage procurement for innovative construction projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Equans Data Centres, a leader in data centre solutions across Europe.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, private medical insurance, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that values your voice.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of digital infrastructure while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic procurement and strong negotiation skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Equans Sci-Tech and Equans Data Centres is looking to recruit a Project Buyer, to join the Procurement team based in Didsbury, Manchester.
As a key member of a close-knit team, the Project Buyer will provide a comprehensive and expert procurement service to support the business, playing a pivotal role in developing innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable supply strategies that mitigate risk and deliver value.
The role will also be instrumental in strengthening and expanding the supply chain to meet the demands of high-growth sectors, particularly within the UK Data Centre market.
While primarily based in Manchester, occasional travel to regional offices and project sites will be required.
This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, technical projects that are shaping the future of digital infrastructure, while making a real impact within a high-growth business and benefiting from excellent career progression opportunities across a global organisation.
What you will deliver?
- Manage the procurement of all Packages for allocated Engineering Construction Projects in line with agreed procurement strategy, ensuring best value solutions for the business.
- Provide an effective and professional service in the procurement of sub-contractors and material/equipment (OEM) for strategic trades including delivery/construction stage project management.
- Manage Projects stakeholders from Operational to Design Team and engage with Senior Project management.
- Be involved in all stages of the projects from, tender, preconstruction, contract negotiations and construction.
- Utilising your experience in M&E building services to Deliver competitive procurement solutions that balance cost, quality and sustainability.
- Supply chain management, including sourcing and structuring the supply chain, carrying out performance and relationship management to drive improved performance/cost benefits.
- Monitor supply chain performance, compliance, workload, and financial status to ensure the company is protected.
- Support the implementation of Carbon Reduction with the supply chain.
What can we offer you?
- On offer is a competitive salary and benefits package, which includes;
- 25 days annual leave (+ public holidays)
- Life Cover equivalent to 4 times annual salary
- Company Stakeholder Pension Scheme
- Private Medical Insurance
- 2 corporate social responsibility days per year
- Broad range of learning opportunities, such as professional qualifications, collective/individual training, and personalised support programmes
- Attractive Employee Referral Rewards Scheme
- Access to our growing employee networks including Access Ability (representing those with physical and mental disabilities), Encompass (representing the LGBTQ+ community), RISE (representing people from ethnic backgrounds), WOMEN TOGETHER (representing women in Equans), Working Parents, and Young Professionals.
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app
Who are we looking for?
- Solid understanding of strategic procurement/buying practices.
- Demonstrated successful operational buying on Construction Projects.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and packages in a fast-paced dynamic environment.
- Strong understanding of Construction project life cycle (Riba stage design).
- Strong negotiation skills.
- A strong team player who is customer focused with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels.
- Excellent Written and verbal Communication.
- Effective problem-solving and strong analytical skills
- Highly methodical with a systematic approach to tasks.
- Strong knowledge of sustainability and safety within procurement practices.
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365, especially Excel.
- Attention to detail and strong time management.
- Accredited degree or equivalent (i. e CIPS).
Who are we?
Equans Data Centres is a strategic data centre partner.
We deliver the whole data centre, providing full general contracting for hyperscaler and colocation data centre projects across Europe, through a single point of contact.
Leveraging Bouygues Energies & Services and Equans' experiences, we provide expertise in construction and engineering, global standardisation, precision localisation and total control of the supply chain.
This enables us to deliver data centres with the best possible quality, speed to delivery and high repeatability and scalability – to realise client needs for cost transparency, low risk, continual availability, innovation and certainty of planning and outcomes.
With more than 1,200 highly skilled employees across 8 European countries, Equans Data Centres has delivered over 400,000m2 of data halls, exceeding 640MW of IT space for major data centres providers such as VIRTUS Data Centres, Digital Reality, Equinix, Vantage Data Centres, Stack Infrastructure, Data4 and many others.
What’s next
If this role is of interest to you, please click below to register, apply, and track your progress! A member of our Resourcing Team will review your application and be in touch.
As part our commitment to better reflect the markets within which we operate, we encourage applications from women, ethnically diverse individuals and people with disabilities, along with all candidates who identify with protected characteristic groups under the Equality Act 2010.
At Equans we’re committed to delivering a culture where everyone’s voice is heard and supported.
We know the value a diverse workforce creates, delivering better results for our people, customers, and stakeholders.
Diversity and inclusion is at the core of what we do, should you join Equans you’ll find a welcoming and open workplace where you’re supported and encouraged to be your true self at work.
You’ll also have access to our growing employee networks including Access Ability (representing those with physical and mental disabilities), Encompass (representing the LGBTQ+ community), RISE (representing people from ethnic backgrounds), Veterans & Reservists, WOMEN Together (representing women in Equans), Working Parents, and Young Professionals.
For this role, you must have evidence of the right to work in the UK.
Unfortunately, we are not able to offer a re-location package with this job role.
Certain roles may require applicants to undergo a Disclosure check, as noted in the role requirements.
The EQUANS Resourcing Team supports this job advert.
Agency involvement is not required.
All related enquiries must come to the resourcing team not direct to Bouygues Energies & Services and EQUANS Managers
Project Buyer in Manchester employer: Equans Data Centres
Equans Data Centres is an exceptional employer, offering a robust Early Careers programme that allows apprentices to gain hands-on experience while earning a competitive salary. With a strong commitment to employee growth, a diverse and inclusive work culture, and access to extensive learning opportunities, including professional qualifications and support networks, you will thrive in a supportive environment that values your contributions and encourages personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Buyer in Manchester
✨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 Equans Data Centres.
✨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 Project Buyer in Manchester
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 Equans Data Centres:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Equans Data Centres. 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 Equans Data Centres.
How to prepare for a job interview at Equans Data Centres
✨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 Equans Data Centres!
✨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 Equans Data Centres. 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 Equans Data Centres's culture.
