Senior Buyer

Due to continued growth, we have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Buyer to join our procurement team on a major Energy project.

The Senior Buyer is a pivotal role within the Procurement and Supply Chain team, responsible for overseeing the procurement of essential materials, equipment, and services required for the successful execution of projects. This role ensures that all procurement activities are conducted in a cost-effective, timely, and efficient manner, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance.

The Senior Buyer collaborates closely with operational and commercial teams, suppliers to secure the best possible value, contributing to the overall success and profitability of the projects. This position demands strong negotiation skills and a thorough understanding of the civil engineering industry to effectively manage supply chains and mitigate risks.

• Support the Project teams or Procurement Manager to deliver the project, procurement, and supply chain objectives.
• Implement procurement strategies that align with project goals and company objectives.
• Maintain procurement schedules and present at weekly project meetings.
• Identify, evaluate, and manage relationships with suppliers to ensure reliable supply chains and negotiate favourable terms.
• Monitor and control procurement costs, ensuring budget adherence and identifying cost‑saving opportunities.
• Provide procurement support for estimating and work‑winning opportunities for the Business Unit.
• Work with commercial teams to negotiate contracts with the supply chain, ensuring terms and conditions are favourable and compliant with company policies.
• Ensure all procured materials and services meet the required quality standards and specifications.
• Prepare RFQs, manage and evaluate returns, and make sourcing recommendations to award contracts.
• Process requisitions and raise Purchase Orders in line with company procedures and delegated authorities.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with procurement activities, including supply chain disruptions and price volatility.
• Oversee inventory levels to ensure materials are available when needed without excessive stockpiling.
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Conduct market research and analysis to stay informed about industry trends, pricing, and new products or services that could benefit Costain.
• Regularly assess supplier performance and implement improvement plans to enhance supplier reliability and quality.

• Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in procurement within the civil engineering or construction industry.
• Minimum 2–3 years of experience in National Grid Power and Transmission project delivery.
• Proficiency in procurement software and tools, and strong understanding of supply‑chain management principles.
• Excellent negotiation and contract‑management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to manage supplier relationships and collaborate with internal teams.
• High attention to detail to ensure accuracy in procurement processes and documentation.
• Full member or working towards the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (minimum level 5).

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Knowledge of the civil engineering sector and its specific procurement needs.
• Experience with advanced procurement and inventory management software.
• Proven ability to lead and mentor junior procurement staff.
• Knowledge of sustainable procurement practices and green supply‑chain management.
• Experience with Oracle or E1 ERP systems.
• Experience of E Tendering portal Source Dogg or similar.
• NEC basic contract knowledge.

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