At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement projects, manage contracts, and support bid teams with data.
- Company: Join Freedom Group, a top UK engineering firm with a rich history and innovative projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, private medical insurance, and flexible benefits like gym memberships.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive culture focused on training, development, and social impact.
- Qualifications: Project procurement experience, MCIPS qualification preferred, and strong stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: We prioritise inclusion and offer accommodations during the recruitment process.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 Β£ per year.
Freedom Group has a brilliant opportunity for a Senior Buyer to join their team. Reporting to the Head of Procurement, this role will support the management of current contracts and assist in new tenders where required. You will work closely with the Commercial Managers and flex across Direct and Indirect categories including Sub-Contractors, Civils, Utilities, Cabling, Switchgears, and Transformers.
Some of the key responsibilities include:
- Leading supplier performance reviews with operational teams, recording outputs, providing feedback, and implementing improvement plans.
- Managing the full process of project-specific procurement tenders.
- Supporting bid teams with accurate procurement data and sub-contractor/supplier costs to ensure value for money.
- Ensuring sub-contractors and suppliers are the best fit for contracts and continue to deliver value, supporting contract retention and customer satisfaction.
- Developing and maintaining supply chain relationships to deliver performance, technical innovation, and competitive advantage.
Weβre looking for candidates with project-based procurement experience, confidence, knowledge, and drive. Ideally, you will be MCIPS qualified (or supported in progressing towards MCIPS) and have:
- Experience managing project procurement spends of Β£2m+
- Capability to lead procurement projects from start to finish
- Experience in both direct and indirect procurement
- An understanding of stakeholder needs across various sectors and market awareness
- Confidence, enthusiasm, and self-management skills
Our benefits include:
- Salary sacrifice car scheme (Hybrid/Electric Vehicles)
- 25 Days Holiday + Bank Holidays, with options to buy/sell additional days
- Pension with up to 8% employer contributions
- Personal Wellbeing and Volunteer Days
- Private Medical Insurance
- Life Assurance
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Program for mental health and well-being support
- Flexible benefits like Dental Insurance, Gym Membership, Travel Insurance, and more.
Next steps involve a recruitment process focused on inclusion, fairness, and respect. We are committed to supporting candidates with accommodations during application and interview stages.
About Us: Freedom Group is part of the NG Bailey Group, a leading UK engineering and services business founded in 1921, with a turnover of Β£500m and 3,000 employees. We focus on training and development, working on innovative projects across building and infrastructure sectors, using the latest tools and technologies. We value progression and will support your development through regular reviews, training, and ongoing support.
Senior Buyer/Buyer employer: Freedom Group
Contact Detail:
Freedom Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer/Buyer
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific categories mentioned in the job description, such as Sub-Contractors, Civils, and Utilities. Understanding these areas will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
β¨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in project-based procurement. Engaging with industry contacts can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience managing procurement spends of Β£2m+ in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led projects from start to finish, as this will be crucial in showcasing your capability for the role.
β¨Tip Number 4
Research Freedom Group and their values, particularly their commitment to training and development. Being able to articulate how your personal goals align with their focus on progression will make a strong impression during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer/Buyer
Some tips for your application π«‘
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Buyer position at Freedom Group. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience in project-based procurement and managing substantial spends.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience with both direct and indirect procurement. Provide specific examples of projects where you've successfully managed procurement processes and supplier relationships.
Showcase Your Qualifications: If you are MCIPS qualified or working towards it, make this clear in your application. Mention any relevant certifications or training that demonstrate your commitment to professional development in procurement.
Tailor Your Cover Letter: Craft a compelling cover letter that addresses how your skills and experiences align with the needs of Freedom Group. Discuss your ability to lead procurement projects and your understanding of stakeholder needs across various sectors.
How to prepare for a job interview at Freedom Group
β¨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Senior Buyer. Familiarise yourself with procurement processes, especially in project-based environments, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with managing contracts and tenders.
β¨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed procurement spends of Β£2m or more. Highlight your ability to lead projects from start to finish and how you've contributed to supplier performance reviews.
β¨Demonstrate Stakeholder Awareness
Be prepared to discuss how youβve engaged with various stakeholders in previous roles. Show that you understand their needs and can balance them with procurement objectives, which is crucial for this position.
β¨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about Freedom Group's procurement strategies and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.