Job Description
Buyer - Sizewell
Job Location City: Ipswich
Country/Region: United Kingdom
Contract Type: Permanent Contract
Full/Part Time: Full Time
Remote/Onsite: On-site/Office based
Travel Requirements: Occasional travel
Requisition ID: 1860
Information at a Glance
As part of Bouygues Construction's Public Works division, VSL International participates in the construction of major technical structures and guarantees their structural safety and durability: transport infrastructure (bridges, tunnels), industrial and energy production structures, and commercial buildings.
VSL's business is based on four areas of expertise:
• Structural systems and technologies
• Civil engineering
• Foundations and soil engineering
• Preservation, structural repairs, renovation and optimization of structures.
VSL has 4,000 employees at 25 locations worldwide (Asia and Oceania, Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Canada).
Project
Sizewell C is at the heart of the UK's clean energy revolution. This ground-breaking nuclear power plant project in Suffolk will play a vital role in delivering a sustainable future. Backed by EDF and the UK Government, Sizewell C is a once-in-a-generation project with significant opportunities to innovate, grow, and deliver excellence.
Our teams are delivering specialist ground engineering works including deep soil mixing, plastic cut-off walls, load transfer platforms, and embankments - all critical enabling works for the main nuclear power station.
Role Overview
We are seeking a Buyer to support the full range of upstream procurement and supply chain activities for VSL's delivery scope on the Sizewell C project. The role will involve preparing RFPs, managing tender processes, negotiating with suppliers, placing contracts, and consolidating supply chain input to support effective client engagement. This is a key opportunity to shape procurement outcomes on one of the UK's most complex and high-profile infrastructure projects.
Main Responsibilities
Procurement Strategy & Planning
* Support the development and implementation of the Procurement Strategy and Plan for Sizewell C.
* Work within existing procurement procedures and suggest improvements to strengthen delivery.
* Develop bespoke contract and commercial solutions for each subcontract package.
Supplier Engagement & Tendering
* Engage with potential suppliers and assess their suitability for project requirements.
* Prepare RFI and ITT documentation for each SZC work package, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
* Manage tender activity, including queries, assessments, and commercial evaluations.
* Negotiate with subcontractors to achieve best value and secure favourable terms.
Contract Management & Compliance
* Manage subcontract awards and ensure requirements of the client contract are effectively cascaded through the supply chain.
* Support development of procurement schedules aligned with client timelines.
* Liaise with finance to agree pricing schedules, payment plans, insurance, and bonds.
* Handle non-legal or non-technical disputes with suppliers.
* Ensure procurement activities are well-documented and compliant with audit requirements.
Governance, Reporting & Improvement
* Support internal and external audits of the procurement function.
* Assist with reporting requirements, KPI management, and maintaining procurement registers.
* Provide consolidated supply chain feedback to project leadership and client representatives.
* Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in procurement processes.
Candidate Profile
Education & Experience
* Previous procurement or buying experience within construction, engineering, or infrastructure.
* Experience in project planning or commercial/contract management is advantageous.
* Knowledge of supply chain management processes and procurement best practices.
Technical Skills
* Strong commercial acumen with contract negotiation experience.
* Skilled in tender preparation, supplier engagement, and contract award.
* Understanding of financial processes including pricing schedules, payment terms, and cost control.
Personal Attributes
* Strong communication and influencing skills, able to build positive supplier and stakeholder relationships.
* Organised and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
* Collaborative, proactive, and solution-focused in resolving challenges.
* Committed to VSL's values of Respect, Excellence, Courage, Integrity, Passion, and Empowerment.
Why Work With Us?
* Impactful Work: Play a key role in delivering procurement outcomes for one of the UK's most significant clean energy projects.
* Career Development: Opportunities for growth and progression within VSL and across a global specialist contracting network.
* Collaborative Environment: Work alongside a highly skilled, diverse team within the Sizewell C Sub-Alliance.
* Innovation & Excellence: Contribute to shaping procurement processes on a technically complex and innovative project.
* Competitive Package: Attractive salary and benefits, including pension and health coverage.
Interested? Apply now and let's build the great structures of tomorrow together!