At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and procure materials for exciting residential developments.
- Company: Leading residential developer with a focus on quality and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible working options, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on innovation and supplier relationships.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in construction buying and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
The Construction Buyer is responsible for the procurement of materials, plant, and subcontract packages to support the successful delivery of residential developments. Working closely with Commercial, Technical, and Site teams, the Buyer will ensure that all purchasing activities achieve best value, meet programme requirements, and maintain the quality standards expected of a leading residential developer.
Key Responsibilities
- Source and procure construction materials, plant, and services in accordance with project requirements.
- Obtain and evaluate quotations from approved suppliers and subcontractors.
- Negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, and commercial terms to achieve cost savings and value for money.
- Raise purchase orders and maintain accurate procurement records.
- Monitor supplier performance, ensuring deliveries are made on time and to the required specification.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors.
- Work collaboratively with Commercial Managers, Quantity Surveyors, Site Managers, and Technical teams.
- Support tendering and procurement strategies for new developments.
- Monitor market trends, material costs, and supply chain risks.
- Ensure compliance with company procurement procedures, health and safety requirements, and sustainability objectives.
- Assist with the resolution of supply chain issues and material shortages.
Skills and Experience
Essential
- Previous experience in a construction buying or procurement role.
- Knowledge of residential construction methods and materials.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Commercial awareness and cost-control focus.
- Ability to work effectively within project deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and procurement software systems.
- Excellent communication and organisational skills.
Desirable
- Experience working for a housebuilder or Tier 1 residential developer.
- Understanding of JCT contracts and procurement processes.
- Membership of a relevant professional body such as CIPS.
Key Performance Indicators
- Procurement savings achieved against budget.
- On-time delivery performance.
- Supplier performance and quality metrics.
- Compliance with procurement procedures.
- Supply chain risk management and issue resolution.
Reporting To
Procurement Manager / Head of Procurement
Location
Watford, Hertfordshire
Construction Buyer in Watford employer: Kenna Recruitment Ltd
As a leading residential developer based in Watford, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and dynamic work environment where our Construction Buyers can thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer ongoing training and development opportunities, competitive remuneration, and a commitment to sustainability that sets us apart as an employer of choice in the construction industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Buyer in Watford
✨Join Local Construction Groups
Tap into local construction communities and forums—think Facebook groups, Meetup, or even LinkedIn. These platforms often have job postings specifically for freelancers and can connect you with potential clients who are looking for your skills.
✨Show Off Your Work
Create a public portfolio showcasing your previous projects. This could be through a personal website or platforms like Behance. Potential clients want to see what you can do, so let your best work do the talking!
✨Network at Construction Events
Get out there and attend construction trade shows and local networking events. These are great for making connections and can often lead directly to freelance opportunities, plus you get to meet people who share your passion for the industry.
✨Utilise Online Freelance Platforms
Don't forget to get on freelance job platforms like Upwork and Freelancer that cater to construction gigs. Build your profile there and start bidding on projects. It’s a solid way to get the ball rolling on your freelance journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Construction Buyer in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Craft:In the construction field, it's all about your hands-on experience and the projects you've worked on. Make sure to include detailed descriptions of past projects in your CV or portfolio. Highlight specific skills, tools, and techniques you’ve mastered that are relevant to the work you're applying for at Kenna Recruitment Ltd.
Provide a Portfolio:As this is a freelance role, having a solid portfolio is key! Include photos and descriptions of your previous work so potential clients can see what you bring to the table. Showcasing a variety of projects can really help demonstrate your versatility in the construction industry.
Clarify Your Availability and Rates:Freelancing is all about communication, so be clear about your availability and rates in your application. Let Kenna Recruitment Ltd know when you can start and what your pricing structure looks like. This helps set the right expectations and shows you’re professional and organised.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:In construction, having the right certifications can set you apart. Mention any industry-relevant qualifications you have, such as health and safety certifications or trade-specific licenses. This not only bolsters your CV but also shows you've got the expertise to get the job done safely and effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kenna Recruitment Ltd
✨Showcase Your Project Portfolio
For a freelance role in construction, we should prepare a strong portfolio demonstrating our previous work. Highlight completed projects, showcasing not just the end result but also the problem-solving skills and tools we used during construction. This visual evidence can really set us apart!
✨Know Your Tools and Techniques
Understanding the latest construction tools and techniques is essential for standing out. Familiarise ourselves with current methodologies and any new software that's relevant to the industry. If we can discuss how we've used these tools in previous projects, it’ll show that we’re on the ball and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
During the interview, we might face practical questions related to site management or problem-solving on the job. Be ready to discuss specific challenges we've faced in past projects and how we overcame them. This will demonstrate our ability to think on our feet and handle the real-world pressures of the construction field.
✨Pitch Your Rates and Work Style
As freelancers, we need to be clear about our rates and working style. Be prepared to discuss our pricing strategy based on past projects. This is not just about the numbers but conveying the value we bring to potential clients like Kenna Recruitment Ltd. Confidence in our worth can go a long way in these discussions!
