At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies for a groundbreaking sustainability project in Teesside.
- Company: Join Balfour Beatty, a leader in iconic infrastructure and sustainability initiatives.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25 days leave, and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Be part of a team driving the UK's first decarbonised industrial cluster.
- Qualifications: Experience in complex procurement and supply chain management is essential.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at our core; we welcome all applicants.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Locations: Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland, Stockton-on-Tees
About the role
Do you want to be at the forefront of one of the world’s most ambitious sustainability initiatives? Balfour Beatty has created iconic buildings and infrastructure worldwide over the past 115 years, redefining excellence and setting industry benchmarks with every project. As a result, alongside several consortium partners, Balfour Beatty has been selected by BP (British Petroleum) to construct a first-of-a-kind fully integrated gas-fired power station with carbon capture and storage. This project is a key driver behind plans to make Teesside the UK’s first decarbonised industrial cluster. Balfour Beatty is seeking a dynamic and experienced Senior Buyer to contribute to the Net Zero Teesside project at our new site in Redcar, Teesside.
What you’ll be doing
As a Senior Buyer, you will be responsible for:
- Proposing and developing (with the Procurement Manager/Head of Procurement) indirect and direct Category/Subcontract strategies, delivering the most economical procurement route for the project.
- Carrying out procurement processes for complex equipment packages in accordance with NZT procurement & supply chain management strategy, including:
- Preparation of requests for proposals and quotations
- Evaluation and analysis of supplier responses (both quantitative and qualitative)
- Assessing value using techniques like Most Economically Advantageous Tender or Social Value evaluation
- Conducting commercial checks for suppliers and past performance
- Negotiating with suppliers to shortlist candidates
- Making shortlist recommendations to the Procurement Manager, Head of Procurement, and project team, explaining the rationale behind choices
- Final negotiations with selected suppliers to prepare contracts/orders and ensure compliance with NZT procurement governance
- Providing support and supervision to the procurement team for assigned activities
- Reporting regularly on procurement and supplier performance
- Monitoring the supply market to identify new suppliers and products, and engaging with suppliers to understand their offerings
- Staying informed about market developments, demand trends, and risks
- Delivering a high level of service by understanding customer needs, technical aspects, and process efficiency
- Establishing long-term, performance-led supplier relationships focused on value, quality, and continuous improvement
Who we’re looking for
The ideal candidate will have:
- Extensive experience in complex procurement processes within construction-related environments
- Experience in developing procurement strategies across categories
- A proven track record of exceeding results targets
- Problem-solving skills and initiative to identify improvements and propose solutions
- Knowledge of procurement ERP and e-tendering systems (e.g., Oracle, Jaggaer)
- Understanding of Subcontract Procurement Processes
- Supply Chain Management experience
Why work for us
Our teams deliver some of the UK’s most ambitious projects, developing infrastructure that supports economies and communities. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Flexible working arrangements, including up to 40% remote work
- 25 days paid annual leave (pro-rated)
- Family-friendly policies, including extended maternity/adoption and paternity leave
- Additional benefits like pension, share plans, volunteering leave, and recognition schemes
About us
Balfour Beatty’s Major Projects team delivers iconic infrastructure projects like HS2 and Hinkley Point C, using the latest technology to create sustainable solutions that benefit communities. We cover all aspects from consultancy and design to construction and maintenance, with proven expertise in large-scale project delivery.
Diversity and inclusion
We believe diversity and inclusion are vital for success and happiness at work. Our initiatives aim to grow a diverse workforce and foster an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive.
Senior Buyer employer: Teesworks
Contact Detail:
Teesworks Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Buyer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in sustainable procurement and carbon capture technologies. This knowledge will not only help you understand the project better but also demonstrate your commitment to the role during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the construction and procurement sectors, especially those involved in sustainability initiatives. Engaging with industry experts can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully developed procurement strategies in previous roles. Highlighting your problem-solving skills and results-driven approach will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on Balfour Beatty's recent projects and achievements, particularly in sustainability. Showing that you are informed about the company’s values and goals will help you align your responses during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Buyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement processes, especially within construction-related environments. Emphasise your achievements and how they align with the responsibilities of a Senior Buyer.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of Balfour Beatty's sustainability initiatives and the Net Zero Teesside project. Explain how your skills and experiences make you the ideal candidate for this role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as negotiation, supplier relationship management, and experience with procurement ERP systems. Use specific examples to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your knowledge of current market trends and supply chain management in your application. This will show that you are proactive and well-informed about the industry, which is crucial for the Senior Buyer role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Teesworks
✨Understand the Project's Sustainability Goals
Familiarise yourself with Balfour Beatty's sustainability initiatives, especially the Net Zero Teesside project. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to achieving them.
✨Showcase Your Procurement Expertise
Highlight your extensive experience in complex procurement processes, particularly within construction-related environments. Be ready to provide examples of successful strategies you've developed and implemented in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've identified problems in procurement processes and proposed effective solutions. This will showcase your initiative and ability to drive improvements.
✨Familiarity with Procurement Tools
Make sure you are well-versed in procurement ERP and e-tendering systems like Oracle or Jaggaer. Being able to discuss your proficiency with these tools will demonstrate your readiness for the role.