Buyer in Sevenoaks

As Buyer, you will support the Commercial and Procurement teams in sourcing and purchasing materials, plant, and subcontract services required for construction projects. Working closely with the Quantity Surveyor, Project Managers, and site teams, you will ensure the timely, cost-effective, and compliant procurement of goods and services while maintaining strong supplier relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Procurement & Supply Chain Management
  • Source and procure materials, plant, and services in line with project requirements and specifications.
  • Obtain, review, and analyse supplier quotations to ensure best value.
  • Negotiate prices, terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers and subcontractors.
  • Place purchase orders and ensure they align with budgets and programme dates.
  • Develop and maintain a reliable and compliant supplier base.
• Cost Control & Reporting
  • Work with the commercial team to align procurement with project budgets.
  • Monitor material costs and report on variances or potential savings.
  • Support cost value optimisation through value engineering opportunities.
  • Maintain accurate purchasing records and cost trackers.
• Order Management & Logistics
  • Track orders from placement through to delivery.
  • Ensure timely delivery of materials to site in accordance with project programmes.
  • Resolve delivery issues, discrepancies, or supply delays efficiently.
  • Coordinate with site teams to manage storage, delivery schedules, and material usage.
• Supplier Relationship Management
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors.
  • Evaluate supplier performance based on cost, quality, and reliability.
  • Ensure suppliers meet company standards, compliance, and H&S requirements.
• Compliance & Risk Management
  • Ensure all procurement activities comply with company procedures and policies.
  • Support ethical sourcing and sustainability objectives where applicable.
  • Monitor supply chain risks and identify alternative suppliers when required.
  • Maintain auditable procurement documentation and records.
• Collaboration & Coordination
  • Work closely with Quantity Surveyors, Project Managers, and site teams.
  • Attend project meetings where procurement input is required.
  • Liaise with finance teams regarding invoicing and payment queries.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications Required

• Previous experience in a Buyer or procurement role within construction or a similar industry.
• Strong negotiation and commercial awareness.
• Good understanding of construction materials and supply chains.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and procurement systems (e.g., COINS or similar).
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to read and interpret specifications and technical documents.

Personal Attributes

• Detail-oriented and highly organised.
• Strong communicator with confidence in negotiation.
• Proactive, solution-driven, and commercially aware.
• Able to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Team player with a collaborative approach across departments.
• Positive can-do attitude to support a growing and ambitious business.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender identity, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under the Equality Act 2010. All employment decisions—including recruitment, promotion, training, compensation, and other terms and conditions—are made on merit, competence, and business needs. We actively encourage applications from all backgrounds and aim to ensure that our recruitment process is accessible to everyone. If you require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please let us know.