Job Specification: Buyer - Commercial & Retail Fit-Out Projects
Client: Main Contractor Specialising in Commercial & Retail Fit-Out
Location: Manchester
Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 per annum
Experience: Minimum 3 years (Junior Level)
Sector: Commercial Interiors (not brickwork or external works)
Company Overview:
Our client is a well-established main contractor that specialises in delivering high-quality commercial and retail fit-out projects for notable high street names. With a growing workload and major project rollouts planned for 2026, they are seeking a dynamic and proactive Buyer to join their team.
Role Overview:
The Buyer will work closely with the Project Managers (PMs) and act as their right-hand support in ensuring that all materials and resources are sourced at the best possible rates. This role is pivotal in the success of our client's projects, as you will be responsible for liaising with both the commercial team and sub-contractors, occasionally assisting with labor needs. The role offers the opportunity to be involved in exciting commercial and retail fit-outs, with a focus on interior works rather than brickwork or external tasks.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Material Procurement: Ensure that all materials required for projects are sourced at the best prices without compromising on quality or delivery timelines.
2. Project Support: Work closely with Project Managers to understand their requirements and priorities, helping them source materials and resources in a timely and cost-effective manner.
3. Commercial Liaison: Communicate effectively with the commercial team to ensure budget adherence, cost control, and efficient project execution.
4. Subcontractor and Supplier Relationships: Build and maintain positive working relationships with subcontractors and suppliers, ensuring competitive pricing and timely delivery of goods.
5. Labor Support: Assist with labor requirements as needed on-site, ensuring that teams are properly equipped with necessary resources and tools.
6. Cost Management: Monitor and track procurement spending to ensure cost-efficiency while maintaining high standards of quality and compliance with project specifications.
7. Reporting: Provide regular updates to the PMs and commercial team on procurement status, material deliveries, and any issues that may arise.
Skills & Experience Required:
8. Experience: At least 3 years in a buying role within the interiors or fit-out sector. Experience in commercial and retail fit-out projects is essential.
9. Sector Knowledge: Strong understanding of the interior fit-out sector, including materials, suppliers, and industry trends. Experience in brickwork or external works is not relevant for this role.
10. Commercial Awareness: Ability to negotiate the best prices and manage budgets effectively. Experience working with commercial teams is essential.
11. Relationship Building: Comfortable liaising with subcontractors, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure seamless communication and timely project delivery.
12. Organisational Skills: High level of attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
13. IT Skills: Proficiency in procurement software and MS Office, particularly Excel, to manage quotes, orders, and project tracking.
Ideal Candidate:
14. Experience: A Buyer with around 3 years of experience, ideally within the interiors or fit-out industry.
15. Proactive: A self-starter who can work independently but is also comfortable being part of a collaborative team.
16. Team Player: A strong communicator who will build solid working relationships with PMs, the commercial team, and external suppliers.
17. Adaptable: Willing to get involved in all aspects of project delivery, including occasional work with subbies and labor teams.
18. Passion for Interiors: A genuine interest and experience in the interiors sector, particularly commercial and retail fit-outs.
Benefits:
19. Competitive salary (£30K - £35K)
20. Opportunity to work on high-profile projects with leading brands
21. Collaborative and supportive team environment
22. Career growth potential within a growing company