At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our procurement team to manage subcontract buying and enhance our supply chain.
- Company: Murphy, a leading employer in the construction sector with a diverse workforce.
- Benefits: 27 days holiday, annual bonus, enhanced pay, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a commitment to sustainability and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on transportation projects while developing your career in procurement.
- Qualifications: Experience in subcontract buying and knowledge of strategic procurement practices.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Murphy is recruiting for a Subcontract Buyer to work with Transportation on the TRUe project at Shipley and Leeds. With a proud history dating back to the 1960s, we provide practical, innovative results, working around the individual needs of our customers. Rail renewals to enhancements, bridge building, highways, ports and emergency earthworks – our award-winning team has extensive experience and has been involved in projects that have changed the face of transport networks in three countries.
We dedicate ourselves to being ‘better engineered’ to ensure our transportation infrastructure solutions meet and exceed customer requirements, delivering value for money through innovation. This is a fantastic opportunity for a focused experienced subcontract and service procurement specialist. You will be working as part of a dedicated procurement team for the regional operating unit (TRUe) to develop the regional supply chain to suit the demand. You will be responsible for helping to deliver an effective and professional service in the procurement of subcontracts, materials and services. You will be responsible for Assistant Buyers, Graduates and apprentices.
A day in the life of a Murphy Subcontract Buyer:
- Ensure contract arrangements and package details are comprehensive and protect the business in its dealings with suppliers and sub-contractors.
- Monitor the supply chain performance, workload and financial status to protect the corporate position.
- Ensure supplier evaluation forms and risk assessments are maintained.
- Deliver a consistent procurement approach across all projects within the region from work winning / pre-construction stage.
- Demonstrate best overall value for money in the procurement recommendations and negotiation process is applied in engagement.
- Ensure decisions are not focused upon lowest price but overall best value for money.
- Input to the monitoring of the market place to ensure awareness of pricing trends, risks and opportunities.
- Continuously seek out and assess new supply chain members to meet regional project demand.
- Support the development of the supply chain, products and innovations that bring cost and/or buildability benefits.
- Develop and forge closer relationships with the strategic supply chain to encourage a culture of inclusive interaction and learning and an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding.
- Establish good relationships with internal clients and project teams.
- Attend regional supply chain events as required to promote and sell Murphy and encourage teamwork.
Still interested, does this sound like you?
- Demonstrable experience of Subcontract buying.
- Ideally knowledge and understanding of work practices, processes and procedures within the construction process from pre-construction stage and into construction stage.
- Good understanding of strategic procurement practices.
- Knowledge of sustainability within procurement practices.
- Product and supplier knowledge relevant to the regional operating unit.
- Good working knowledge of contracts.
- Understanding of Safety within procurement practices.
What’s in it for you?
- 27 days holiday, plus bank holidays with the option to buy an additional 2 days holiday each year, holidays increase with length of service.
- Discretionary annual bonus and annual salary review.
- Above market rate contributory pension scheme.
- Life assurance, health screening and enhanced sick pay.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay and a maternity returners bonus.
- Extra weeks holiday for all employees getting married and a wedding bonus.
- Subsidised canteen facilities in core locations.
- Dedicated and continued investment in your professional development.
- Other Murphy benefits include retail discounts and cashback, discounted gym memberships, cycle to work scheme etc.
About Murphy: Murphy is formally recognised as a sector leading employer, Platinum Investors In People accredited along with reported operating profit up 57% on prior year. At Murphy, we are incredibly proud of our diverse workforce. Not only do our people represent over 60 different nationalities, but they also represent a wide range of backgrounds, ethnicities and ages. With a forward order book of 5.4bn and 23m invested in environmentally friendly plant in 2024 there really is #MoretoMurphy.
If you are unable to apply via the usual process, please call Lorna Rhodes on 07801 960464 to discuss in more detail. Murphy is unable to employ anyone who does not have the legal right to live and work in the UK.
Subcontract Buyer employer: Murphy Group
Murphy is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Shipley and Leeds where innovation meets dedication. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive professional development opportunities alongside competitive benefits such as 27 days of holiday, a discretionary annual bonus, and a contributory pension scheme. Our inclusive culture, recognised by our Platinum Investors In People accreditation, fosters collaboration and respect, making Murphy a rewarding place to build your career in the transportation sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Subcontract Buyer
✨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 Murphy Group.
✨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 Subcontract Buyer
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 Murphy Group:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Murphy Group. 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 Murphy Group.
How to prepare for a job interview at Murphy Group
✨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 Murphy Group!
✨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 Murphy Group. 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 Murphy Group's culture.
