St Annes / Blackpool | Full-time | Permanent
£27,000 – £31,500 per annum dependent on experience + Training
About Thompsons
At Thompsons, we specialise in delivering high-quality shopfitting, fit-out, and construction projects across the UK. Key sectors include hospitality, hotels, quick serve, and new build developments.
Working with many global brands, we deliver projects on a fast-track basis, often within live environments, where accuracy, responsiveness, and teamwork are critical. Our reputation is built on consistently meeting tight deadlines, maintaining high standards, and delivering within budgets.
Every department plays a crucial role in this success—and our Buying team sits at the centre of project delivery.
The Role
We are seeking a capable and motivated Buyer & Plant Hire Support (Construction / Shopfitting / Fit-Out) to join our team.
This role will suit either:
A Buyer within construction or fit-out
Or a high-potential junior candidate with some industry exposure who is ready to step up and develop quickly
We are open to individuals who are early in their career but demonstrate the drive, work ethic, and attitude needed to succeed in a fast-paced procurement environment.
You will be responsible for sourcing and managing the supply of materials, fixtures, fittings, and supporting in the hiring of plant and skips, whilst ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Procurement & Purchasing
Source and procure shopfitting and construction materials, including joinery, fixtures, fittings, finishes, and specialist items
Obtain and assess supplier and subcontractor quotations against drawings, specifications, and project requirements
Raise, manage, and track purchase orders through to delivery and invoicing
Support value-led purchasing decisions to achieve best cost and quality outcomes
Project-Based Procurement
Work closely with Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors, and site teams
Interpret specifications and schedules to determine procurement requirements
Plan procurement activities in line with fast-track project programmes
Ensure materials and services are delivered on time to avoid delays
Supplier & Supply Chain Management
Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and manufacturers
Source specialist suppliers for bespoke items where required
Negotiate pricing, lead times, and availability
Monitor supplier performance and resolve any issues quickly and effectively
Cost Control & Commercial Awareness
Support delivery of projects within budget constraints
Identify opportunities for cost savings and alternative sourcing
Work alongside the commercial team to ensure alignment with project budgets
Maintain visibility of procurement spend across projects
Logistics & Coordination
Coordinate deliveries to site, including phased and just-in-time deliveries
Manage procurement requirements across multiple concurrent projects
Liaise with site teams to ensure materials are available when required
Compliance & Systems
Ensure materials meet required specifications and standards
Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation
Use systems such as Sage 200 (training and support provided where necessary)
Skills & Experience
Experience or exposure to construction, shopfitting, fit-out, building materials and plant hire
Understanding of procurement, purchasing, or supply chain processes
Broad knowledge (or willingness to learn) of building materials used in key sec
Familiarity with Sage 200 advantageous
Strong organisational skills with high attention to detail
Good standard of English and Maths
Competent use of IT systems including Excel
Personal Attributes
Strong work ethic with a determination to see tasks through to completion
Able to perform in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Professional, dependable, and accountable
Enthusiastic with a genuine interest in learning about new materials and suppliers
Proactive, solutions-focused, and resilient under pressure
A team player who contributes to the overall success of the business
Why Join Thompsons?
Be part of a business delivering high-quality, fast-track construction and shopfitting projects
Ongoing training and development, including support with internal systems
Work within a supportive and experienced team environment
Play a key role in maintaining our reputation for delivery, reliability, and repeat business
Working Environment
Fast-track programmes with tight deadlines and high expectations
Multiple projects running simultaneously across different locations
High level of responsibility and autonomy
A culture where performance, accuracy, and commitment are valued
REF-(Apply online only)