At a Glance
- Tasks: Source and manage materials for bespoke joinery projects across the UK and Ireland.
- Company: Established joinery and interior solutions company with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, career development, modern office, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and skill development.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and play a key role in exciting projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying or procurement within construction or manufacturing.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About Us
We are a well-established joinery, retail fit-out and interior solutions company delivering high-quality bespoke projects across the UK and Ireland. With a strong reputation for craftsmanship and a growing project portfolio, we are building a team that can take us to the next level and this role is central to that.
The Role
We are looking for a commercially sharp, organised and proactive Buyer to join our team in Dundonald. You will take ownership of procurement across our joinery manufacturing and fit-out operations sourcing materials, managing suppliers, and making sure everything arrives on time, to specification, and at the right price. Working closely with our Estimating, Production, and Project Management teams, you will play a key role in keeping our projects on programme and on budget. You will also be a critical user of our ERP system, ensuring purchasing data is accurate and up to date at all times.
What You Will Do
- Source, purchase and manage materials, components, fixtures, fittings and specialist items for joinery manufacture and fit-out projects across the UK and Ireland.
- Obtain and evaluate quotations, negotiate competitive pricing and delivery terms, and raise purchase orders through to delivery.
- Monitor order progress, resolve delivery issues proactively, and keep project teams informed of any supply risks or delays.
- Work alongside Estimators and Project Managers to confirm material requirements and align procurement with project programmes.
- Maintain accurate purchasing records, cost summaries and supplier data within our ERP system.
- Build and manage supplier relationships monitoring performance, quality and reliability, and identifying opportunities for better value.
- Support cost control by tracking market pricing, producing purchasing reports, and identifying value engineering options where appropriate.
What You Will Bring
- Essential
- Previous buying or procurement experience within joinery, manufacturing, construction or fit-out.
- Good knowledge of construction materials, timber products and supply chains.
- Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build lasting supplier relationships.
- Commercial awareness and a solid understanding of cost control and budget management.
- Experience using ERP or procurement software; accuracy and discipline in data entry is essential in this role.
- Strong IT skills, particularly Excel.
- Excellent organisation and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
- Full UK driving licence.
- Desirable
- Knowledge of bespoke joinery, specialist timber products and fit-out materials.
- Experience in a fast-paced project delivery environment.
Benefits
- Flexible working options
- Career development opportunities
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- State-of-the-art modern office space
- Free on Site car parking
- Private Healthcare
- Death in Service Benefit
- Company Pension
Buyer employer: Somerville Fit-Out
At Somerville, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering skilled joiners the opportunity to work in prestigious retail environments across the globe. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training and career progression, while our attractive salary, travel arrangements, and a strong focus on work/life balance ensure a rewarding experience. Join a friendly team that values quality craftsmanship and enjoy the unique advantage of worldwide travel as part of your role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 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 Somerville Fit-Out.
✨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 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 Somerville Fit-Out:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Somerville Fit-Out. 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 Somerville Fit-Out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Somerville Fit-Out
✨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 Somerville Fit-Out!
✨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 Somerville Fit-Out. 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 Somerville Fit-Out's culture.
