At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for exciting retail and fit-out projects across the UK.
- Company: Join StrongPoint ALS, a dynamic player in the construction industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible site visits and a chance to mentor junior team members.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping procurement strategies and supplier relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement within the UK construction sector is essential.
Procurement Lead / Senior Buyer – Retail & Fit-Out Construction
Location: UK – office-based with regular site visits
Company: StrongPoint ALS
About the Role
StrongPoint ALS is looking for an experienced Procurement Lead / Senior Buyer to lead procurement activity across a range of fast-paced retail, fit-out and refurbishment projects throughout the UK.
This is a key role within the business, responsible for securing best value, developing reliable supply-chain partnerships and ensuring that materials and subcontract packages are procured in line with project programmes, budgets and quality requirements.
You will work closely with our project, commercial and operational teams to support projects from pre-construction through to successful delivery.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead procurement activities across multiple retail, fit-out and refurbishment projects.
- Develop and implement effective project procurement strategies.
- Source materials, equipment, services and subcontract packages.
- Prepare enquiries, evaluate tenders and make supplier recommendations.
- Negotiate high-value orders, commercial terms and subcontract agreements.
- Build, manage and develop relationships with suppliers and subcontractors.
- Support pre-construction planning, cost planning and value-engineering activities.
- Work with project teams to ensure orders are placed accurately and in line with programme requirements.
- Monitor supplier performance, lead times, market conditions and supply-chain risks.
- Identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve quality, efficiency and delivery performance.
- Ensure procurement activities comply with company procedures and contractual requirements.
- Provide guidance and mentoring to Buyers and Junior Buyers.
Experience and Qualifications
The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:
- Proven experience as a Senior Buyer, Procurement Lead or similar role within the UK construction industry.
- A strong background in retail fit-out, shopfitting, refurbishment or fast-paced construction projects.
- In-depth knowledge of UK suppliers, subcontractors and construction procurement practices.
- Experience procuring both materials and subcontract packages.
- Working knowledge of JCT and/or NEC contracts.
- Strong commercial awareness and the ability to identify and manage procurement risk.
- Excellent negotiation, communication and supplier-management skills.
- The confidence to work independently and manage competing project priorities.
- Experience supporting or mentoring less-experienced members of a procurement team.
- A CIPS qualification or progress towards CIPS membership is preferred.
- A full UK driving licence and flexibility to visit project sites when required.
About You
You will be commercially focused, organised and confident working in a fast-moving project environment. You will take a proactive approach to resolving supply-chain challenges and will be comfortable building effective relationships with colleagues, suppliers and subcontractors at all levels.
You will understand the importance of balancing cost, quality, programme requirements and commercial risk while maintaining professional and ethical procurement standards.
Why Join StrongPoint?
This is an opportunity to take a leading role in the procurement and delivery of varied retail and fit-out projects across the UK. You will work with experienced operational and project teams and have the opportunity to influence procurement strategy, strengthen supplier partnerships and support the continued development of the business.
StrongPoint is committed to creating an inclusive working environment.
Applications are welcomed from suitably qualified candidates from all backgrounds.
Applicants must demonstrate the eligibility to work in the UK.
Procurement Lead - Senior Buyer in Birmingham employer: StrongPoint ALS
StrongPoint ALS is an exceptional employer that values detail-oriented individuals who thrive in a dynamic retail environment. With a strong focus on employee autonomy and growth, the company provides comprehensive training, competitive benefits, and the convenience of a company van for travel across the UK. Join a supportive work culture that encourages innovation and offers meaningful opportunities for professional development in the exciting field of shopfitting and store transformations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Lead - Senior Buyer in Birmingham
✨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 StrongPoint ALS.
✨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 Procurement Lead - Senior Buyer in Birmingham
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 StrongPoint ALS:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to StrongPoint ALS. 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 StrongPoint ALS.
How to prepare for a job interview at StrongPoint ALS
✨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 StrongPoint ALS!
✨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 StrongPoint ALS. 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 StrongPoint ALS's culture.
