Senior Buyer – Directs Materials
Location: Central London (Hybrid Working)
Salary: 50k - £65k + Excellent Benefits
Sector: Construction & Infrastructure
Type: Full-Time, Permanent
A top-tier UK-based infrastructure and construction business is seeking a Senior Buyer to drive category strategies for direct materials across major projects. This is an exciting opportunity to join a progressive and purpose-driven procurement function, operating within a centralised team that plays a key role in shaping the future of the built environment.
As a key member of the Direct Materials and Category Management team, you will lead end-to-end procurement strategy, supplier engagement, and category development to deliver value across a significant spend portfolio. You'll work collaboratively with internal stakeholders across Strategic Business Units, commercial teams, and central procurement to implement strategies that not only deliver cost savings but also drive innovation, sustainability, and risk mitigation.
Key Responsibilities:
* Category Strategy: Design and implement sourcing strategies and category plans aligned with business and sustainability goals.
* Supplier Management: Build and maintain a high-performing preferred supplier network, driving continuous improvement and performance.
* Commercial Negotiation: Negotiate supplier agreements to ensure best value, leveraging the organisation’s market position.
* Risk Management: Proactively identify supply and cost risks, and establish mitigation and assurance frameworks.
* Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with senior internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with wider business objectives.
* Market Insight: Monitor supply markets, assess supplier capabilities, and identify new sourcing opportunities.
* Governance & Compliance: Uphold procurement process integrity while maintaining agility and responsiveness.
Skill Required:
Essential:
* Proven background in category management and strategic sourcing, ideally within construction or infrastructure sectors.
* Excellent commercial acumen, negotiation skills, and a track record of achieving cost savings and added value.
* Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
* High level of professionalism, integrity, and independent working ability.
Desirable:
* Experience sourcing construction materials or working within Tier 1 contractors.
* Understanding of commodity materials procurement and performance-based supplier relationships.
* CIPS qualification (or currently studying towards).
Keywords: London, Senior Buyer, Buyer, Construction, Infrastructure, Directs, Materials,