At a Glance
- Tasks: Support procurement by negotiating and placing orders for materials and services.
- Company: Join Skanska, a leading global construction and development company.
- Benefits: Enjoy 24/7 digital GP service, financial wellbeing support, and enhanced family benefits.
- Other info: Flexible working options available and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects that shape communities and improve lives.
- Qualifications: Professionalism, enthusiasm, collaboration skills, and excellent communication are key.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
At Skanska, we’re shaping the way we live, work and connect. As one of the world’s largest construction and development companies, we work together with customers, communities and partners to shape a better society. We’re working with National Highways on a £679million transformation of the A428, unlocking faster, smoother journeys between Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge. This project will save precious commuting time, cut carbon emissions and open up long‑term opportunities for local people and businesses.
You will be working in the Infrastructure OU based in St Neots where we are responsible for the design, build and refurbishment excellence to complex civil engineering projects nationwide – combining technical expertise with a passion for creating lasting value for people and places.
We are currently looking for an Assistant Buyer who will support and assist the procurement function in the negotiation and placing of material, services, and plant orders against operational and business requirements.
As the Assistant Buyer, you will:
- Assist the procurement function to minimise the cost of plant, materials and services to Skanska whilst supporting the need for a safe and sustainable supply chain.
- Support negotiations with suppliers and raise orders ensuring relevant technical and commercial clauses are included.
- Use Skanska’s Oracle ERP to place orders, manage tenders and run reports.
- Preparation of material and plant enquiry documents and support senior procurement staff in the preparation of tender review sheets.
- Participate and support internal and external audits on procurement and comply with Skanska’s Procurement Policies.
We are looking for:
- Professionalism and good corporate governance.
- Enthusiasm and excellent collaboration skills.
- Desire to improve both yourself and the procurement tasks you undertake.
- Excellent communication skills across all levels of business and supply chain.
What we offer:
- 24/7 digital GP service for you and your family.
- Financial wellbeing and employee assistance.
- Enhanced family benefits (including maternity, paternity, dependants and parental bereavement leave).
Inclusion and Diversity: We thrive through embracing differences as we know that diversity opens a rich potential for new ways of thinking, helping us to build successful and high-performing teams. We call it The Skanska Way. Where possible, we offer a range of flexible working options, and we would be happy to discuss this at the application stage if this is something you’d like to explore.
Reasonable adjustments: We want you to feel confident and supported throughout every stage of our recruitment process. If you need any adjustments to help you during your application, please contact us at recruitment@skanska.co.uk or call 0330 105 2000 – Option 5 & 1.
Assistant Buyer in Milton Keynes employer: Skanska UK PLC
At Skanska, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that values diversity and innovation. As an Assistant Buyer in St Neots, you will benefit from comprehensive support for your professional growth, alongside a range of employee benefits including a 24/7 digital GP service and enhanced family leave options. Join us in shaping a better society while enjoying a fulfilling career with opportunities to make a real impact on local communities and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer in Milton Keynes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Skanska and understanding their projects, especially the A428 transformation. Show your enthusiasm for their work and how you can contribute as an Assistant Buyer.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As an Assistant Buyer, you'll need to be confident in discussions with suppliers. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to get comfortable with the process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Skanska team.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer in Milton Keynes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Buyer role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, like your negotiation skills and any procurement experience you have.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for the role and how your background aligns with Skanska’s values. Don’t forget to mention your desire to improve and collaborate!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects this. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status easily.
How to prepare for a job interview at Skanska UK PLC
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of an Assistant Buyer and how it fits into Skanska's operations. Familiarise yourself with their projects, especially the A428 transformation, and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Since the role involves supporting negotiations with suppliers, prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully negotiated terms or resolved conflicts. This will demonstrate your capability and confidence in handling procurement tasks.
✨Get Comfortable with Oracle ERP
If you have experience with Oracle ERP or similar systems, be sure to mention it. If not, do a bit of research on how it works and be prepared to discuss how you would approach using it for placing orders and managing tenders.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Communication
Skanska values excellent collaboration skills, so think of examples that highlight your ability to work well with others. Be ready to discuss how you’ve communicated effectively across different levels of a business or supply chain in previous roles.
