At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage vendor relationships for large-scale construction projects.
- Company: Top mechanical contractor in the eastern US, known for diverse commercial and government projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on continuous improvement and excellence.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on project success and company profitability in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in procurement with strong leadership and negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
About Us
We are one of the leading mechanical contractors in the eastern United States. Our construction and service (mechanical and electrical) experience includes a broad range of commercial and government projects, including data centers, hospitals, sports stadiums, convention centers, hotels, and research laboratories.
Job Summary
Location: Baltimore, Maryland 21227
Reports to: Senior Vice President, Preconstruction
FLSA Status: Full-Time / Exempt
Work Shift: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. / Mon. – Fri. (Not a Remote Position)
SUMMARY
We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Director of Purchasing to lead our procurement function across a large-scale, multi-project mechanical contracting operation. This role is critical to ensuring cost efficiency, supply chain reliability, and material availability while directly contributing to project margins and overall company profitability. The ideal candidate brings deep construction procurement expertise, strong vendor relationships, and a proven ability to drive measurable cost savings in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute enterprise-wide procurement strategies aligned with company growth goals
- Lead sourcing initiatives across key material categories (HVAC, piping, plumbing, equipment)
- Negotiate high-value vendor agreements, and rebate programs
- Cost & Margin Management
- Drive material cost savings and protect project margins
- Partner with estimating and operations to align pricing strategies and project budgets
- Monitor commodity trends (steel, copper, etc.) and mitigate pricing risk
- Vendor & Supply Chain Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and distributors
- Evaluate vendor performance, pricing, and reliability
- Ensure supply continuity and proactively address shortages or delays
- Project Execution Support
- Collaborate with project managers to ensure timely procurement and delivery
- Support large-scale and complex project purchasing requirements
- Resolve procurement challenges impacting schedules or costs
- Team Leadership
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing procurement team
- Establish KPIs and accountability across purchasing and materials management
- Drive a culture of performance, collaboration, and continuous improvement
- Process & Systems Optimization
- Improve procurement workflows, reporting, and analytics
- Optimize ERP and purchasing systems (Viewpoint)
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. You must be work authorized in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for employer sponsorship now or in the future.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Supply Chain Management or a related field (required).
- 10+ years of procurement or supply chain experience, with construction or mechanical contracting required
- 5+ years of leadership experience managing teams and large-scale spend
- Proven track record of delivering cost savings and supplier negotiations at scale
- Strong understanding of project-based procurement environments
- Excellent financial, analytical, and negotiation skills
- Experience with ERP/procurement systems
- Deep knowledge of mechanical systems (HVAC, piping, plumbing).
- Strong understanding of construction documents, codes, and industry standards.
- Strong familiarity with construction contract structures, risk allocation, and industry standards.
- Excellent negotiation, mathematical, and analytical skills.
PREFERED QUALIFICATIONS
- Strategic thinking and decision-making
- Strong leadership and team development skills
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities
- Negotiation and relationship management
- Financial acumen and analytical skills
- Problem-solving and attention to detail
- Prior in house experience with a general contractor, construction manager, or large specialty contractor.
COMPUTER SKILLS
Must demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, (i.e. Outlook, Word and Excel). Advanced end-user of Excel. Working knowledge of purchasing software a plus.
REQUIRED ATTRIBUTES
- Practical, business oriented preconstruction judgment
- Ability to balance supply chain risks with operational realities
- Ability to manage high volume, high value purchasing deliverables under tight deadlines
- Must demonstrate integrity, honesty, professionalism, and appropriate concern regarding dissemination of sensitive and confidential information.
- Must demonstrate the ability to work well in a team oriented work environment and flexibility to take on added responsibilities when department demands present with additional work load.
- Must demonstrate professional self discipline and initiative in performing work, attention to detail and committed to performing work within specified deadlines.
- Must prioritize and organize work in a fast paced multi-tasking environment.
- Must build positive working relationships with multiple levels of employees, management, suppliers, and customers.
- Must demonstrate commitment to company values and safety culture.
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Must have the demonstrated ability to effectively communicate in English, cooperate, and collaborate with multiple levels of customer, employees, unions, government agencies, vendors and suppliers, and other contractor organizations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, see, talk, and hear. The employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is regularly required to walk, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to twenty-five (25) pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. We offer our employees a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package and are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and success.
Director of Purchasing in Poole employer: The Poole and Kent Corporation
As a leading mechanical contractor in the eastern United States, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work culture that values collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. Our Baltimore location offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, alongside opportunities for team leadership and strategic influence in large-scale projects. Join us to be part of a company that not only prioritises employee development but also champions a commitment to safety and excellence in the construction industry.
Contact Details:
The Poole and Kent Corporation Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Purchasing in Poole
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction and mechanical contracting world. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups to meet potential employers and get insider info on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their procurement strategies and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team and contributing to our exciting projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Purchasing in Poole
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Purchasing role. Highlight your experience in construction procurement and any relevant vendor relationships you've built. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you’ve driven cost savings or improved supply chain efficiency in past roles. We love numbers, so if you can quantify your successes, even better!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s industry-specific. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Poole and Kent Corporation
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of mechanical systems, especially HVAC, piping, and plumbing. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in procurement and supply chain management within the construction industry. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Purchasing, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed large-scale projects, and driven cost savings in previous roles. Be ready to discuss your approach to mentoring and developing team members, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your negotiation strategies and experiences. Think of specific instances where you negotiated high-value vendor agreements or rebate programmes. Highlight your analytical skills and how you've used them to achieve measurable results in past negotiations.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research the company’s values and culture before the interview. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, particularly regarding safety and integrity. Showing that you understand and respect their culture can set you apart from other candidates.
