Job Purpose:
The Materials Buyer will be responsible for sourcing and purchasing all construction materials for residential projects. This role involves negotiating with suppliers, ensuring cost-effective procurement, maintaining material stock levels, and ensuring timely delivery to meet project timelines. The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of residential construction materials and the procurement process.
Key Responsibilities:
Procurement & Sourcing:
* Research and source materials required for residential construction projects, ensuring quality, cost efficiency, and timely delivery
* Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturers of construction materials
* Ensure that all materials comply with industry standards, regulations, and the company’s quality requirements.
Negotiation & Cost Management:
* Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers and vendors to secure competitive rates.
* Monitor and manage material costs to stay within the project budget
* Look for opportunities to reduce material costs without compromising quality or safety standards.
Inventory & Stock Control:
* Track inventory levels and ensure that materials are ordered in a timely manner to avoid project delays.
* Monitor material stock usage and reorder supplies in line with project schedules.
* Work closely with project managers to forecast material requirements and align purchasing with project timelines.
Documentation & Reporting
* Maintain accurate records of all material purchases, supplier contracts, and transactions.
* Prepare and present procurement reports, including cost savings, supplier performance, and material usage.
* Update and track purchase orders, invoices, and other related documents.
Collaboration & Communication:
* Collaborate with site managers, quantity surveyors, and project teams to understand project-specific material needs.
* Provide timely information to the procurement team and relevant departments regarding material availability, pricing, and potential risks.
Skills & Experience Required:
Essential:
* Proven experience in material procurement within the construction industry, ideally with a bias towards residential projects.
* Strong knowledge of residential construction materials, including timber, brickwork and concrete.
* Excellent negotiation skills and ability to build strong supplier relationships.
* Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple orders and deadlines.
* Good understanding of inventory management and stock control.
* Proficient in procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, etc.).
Desirable:
* A relevant qualification in procurement, construction management, or a related field (e.g., CIPS or similar).
* Experience with construction project management or site operations.
* Knowledge of sustainability and environmentally friendly materials in residential construction