Buyer

Job Type: – Permanent

Reporting to: – Construction Director

The Company:

We are an expanding Main Contractor with a growing pipeline of live and upcoming projects. The business has built a fantastic reputation within the industry and are now looking to bolster our team. We have built our reputation by being committed to delivering a personalised service and adapting their approach to suit each individual client.

Operating predominantly in the Industrial/Commercial sector, we deliver projects valued between £8m-£25m.

Job Title: Buyer

Job Summary:

To provide comprehensive support in the procurement and supply chain functions of the construction business, ensuring timely purchasing, cost control, inventory accuracy, and supplier performance to support smooth project delivery and operational efficiency.

This position is ideal for a detail-oriented, proactive professional who enjoys a dynamic work environment and is eager to contribute to the success of the business.

1. Procurement & Supply Chain Operations

• Assist in purchasing construction materials, plant, tools, and services in accordance with project specifications and company procurement policies.
• Communicate with suppliers and subcontractors to request quotes, negotiate pricing, and confirm orders.
• Raise and issue purchase orders, monitor deliveries, and support end-to-end tracking of procurement activity.
• Maintain and update supplier and subcontractor databases, ensuring accurate records and performance tracking.
• Review, verify, and close purchase orders for accurate invoicing and financial reconciliation.
• Support the Office Manager and wider team with procurement and administrative tasks as required.

2. Site & Project Support

• Send out once-weekly on-hire reports to Site Managers and CMIS.
• Coordinate and track material deliveries, collecting delivery tickets and ensuring prompt arrival to site.
• Liaise with site teams to manage expectations and resolve delivery issues quickly.

3. Inventory & Material Management

• Track and manage the inventory of construction materials to prevent shortages or excess stock.
• Ensure timely ordering and delivery of materials to meet site schedules and avoid project delays.
• Work with site staff to ensure materials are stored and used efficiently.

4. Cost Control & Budget Monitoring

• Analyse material pricing trends and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with project managers and commercial teams to track material costs against budgets.
• Support the development of cost forecasts and reporting.

5. Documentation & Compliance

• Prepare, issue, and store accurate purchase orders, contracts, and supporting documents in line with internal procedures.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all purchasing activities, including suppliers, materials, quantities, costs, and delivery schedules.
• Assist in preparing regular reports on procurement activities, budget adherence, and supplier performance.

6. Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Ensure that all purchased materials meet required specifications and quality standards.
• Collaborate with site managers and QA teams to resolve any quality or delivery issues promptly.
• Support adherence to health & safety and environmental compliance related to procurement activities.
• Work closely with site managers, project managers, engineers, and foremen to understand material needs and timelines.
• Troubleshoot and escalate supply chain issues, providing updates to project teams.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings to improve procurement and logistics workflows.

Person Specification

Key Responsibilities:

• Source and purchase materials, plant, and subcontractor services in line with project budgets and specifications.
• Liaise closely with the QS team to align purchasing decisions with cost plans, variations, and project forecasts.
• Collaborate with the Accounts department to ensure accurate invoicing, PO matching, and payment processing.
• Maintain strong supplier relationships and negotiate best-value pricing, terms, and delivery schedules.
• Track procurement schedules and ensure timely availability of materials on-site.
• Assist in preparing tender documentation and contribute to cost planning by providing market rates.
• Monitor supplier performance and maintain up-to-date records in procurement systems.

Skills & Attributes:

• Excellent negotiation and communication skills
• Strong organisational and time management abilities
• High attention to detail and accuracy in order processing and reporting
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and procurement platforms
• Team player with a proactive and analytical approach

Experience & Qualifications:

• 35 years experience in a buying/procurement role within the construction industry (essential)
• Good working knowledge of construction materials and supplier networks
• Experience liaising with QS and Accounts teams for cost and payment alignment
• Relevant qualification in procurement, supply chain, or construction (desirable)

Key Interfaces:

• Quantity Surveyors: Collaborate on cost control, variation orders, and forecasting.
• Accounts Team: Coordinate invoice approvals, payments, and financial reporting
• Site & Project Teams: Ensure material requirements are met on time and within budget.