Job Description
Key facts
Job title: Senior Buyer
Business: TW Oxfordshire
Location: Abingdon
Report to: Commercial Manager/Director
The purpose of the role
To negotiate and procure all materials and plant to ensure that the business’ unit output
programme is carried out professionally and within budget. Ensure adequate resources on site
to build the product in accordance with the planned programme. Monitor and evaluate supplier
performance and take any appropriate action.
Management, motivation and training of staff involved in buying function.
Key accountabilities
Resource Management
 Liaise with the Sales and Design and Planning Departments with regard to specification on a
site-by-site basis, advise on cost and availability of materials and products and produce
specifications.
 Liaise with Production Management in respect of the programming and delivery of material
supplies.
 Develops Procurement strategy for approval by Commercial Director/Manager. To include
sourcing, people, technology and process.
Scheduling and quantifying materials
 Prepare material schedules from house type drawings and liaise with site management on
any later amendments and revisions.
 Negotiate and place orders for materials/suppliers on a competitive tender basis.
 Negotiate and place orders for hiring any plant e.g. forklifts, dumpers etc. and maintain a
plant register where appropriate.
 Ensure all specifications and programmes are complied with and that quality is not
compromised.
 Monitor invoicing procedures and resolve any issues in conjunction with the Finance
Department.
 Work with all suppliers to negotiate best deals where appropriate and work with other
departments to improve cost effectiveness.
Supplier Management (and sub-contractors where applicable)
 Evaluate supply markets and suppliers on a regional, national and international basis.
 Implement supplier performance measurement systems.
 Ensure terms of supplier agreements are fully met in respect of delivery, quality and price.
 Work with suppliers on an agenda of continuous improvement.
 The above points apply to both Regional and National Procurement activity.
 Oversee site stock on a regular basis.
 Monitor material quality and the performance of suppliers and subcontractors in
conjunction with site based staff.
Job Description
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Provide feedback to suppliers and subcontractors outlining where an unacceptable standard
of materials or performance has been identified.
Management and communication of National Agreements to the Business Unit to include
collection of rebate claims.
Commercial
 Negotiate with suppliers to achieve the best possible commercial outcome.
 Negotiate contracts to minimise risks to the Business.
 Constantly seek ways to take cost out of the Business.
 Manage invoice and rebate procedures to maximise cash flow opportunities.
 Contribute to the Budget process with up to date pricing and forecast information.
 Record price variations and savings monthly to QS, Commercial Manager/Commercial
Director.
 The above points apply to both Regional and National Procurement activity.
Human Resources
 Keep up to date with Legislative changes and Best Practise Procurement.
 To carry out periodic staff performance appraisals to all direct reports.
 Train and Develop any Direct Reports.
 Develop succession plans as appropriate.
General
 Maintain awareness of continuing product development in light of changes in legislation i.e.
building regulations etc.
 Benchmark processes and prices with Best Practice, and the House Building Sector generally.
 Attend pre start, specification and any other relevant meeting as required under the
Company’s Operating Framework & Commercial Manual.
 Undertake regular site visits to support the production team and monitor material quality.
 Any other duties as required by the Commercial Director.
Primary network: who you will work with
Internal:
External:
All staff involved in site development
Divisional Purchasing Manager
Other Senior Buyers in TWUK
External suppliers of materials, labour and services both regionally and
nationally
Job Description
Key competencies
Focus on the future – Delivering the operational requirements of the team through well
supported business cases on new initiatives
Makes informed decisions - Drives effective and considered decision-making through the team,
resulting in increased organisational performance
Be Planned and Organised – Work smartly, efficiently and manages their time well. Work in a
structured way.
Focus on Solutions – Clear organisational barriers to allow others to drive results. Use collective
problem solving with teams. Focus the team on developing customer focused solutions.
Develop Relationships – Build positive and trusted relationships. Encourage and take feedback
seriously modifying behaviour as a result. Develop sustainable and robust relationships.
Have professional impact – Maintain a consistent positive impact with others. Communicate
well checking for others understanding. Manage your own reactions under pressure.
Open to change – Engage others in changes in their work. Demonstrate flexibility when needed.
Collaborate – Develop and support collaborative team working. Have effective networks both in
and outside of TW. Encourage knowledge and skills sharing across the business.
Key experience
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Application of Best Practice Procurement Tools and Techniques.
Good knowledge of Building Regulations, NHBC and Health and Safety Requirements.
Wide experience in the procurement and purchase of materials and plant.
Working knowledge of contract law.
Competent in IT e.g. database systems, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
If you would like to be considered for this role then please send your CV to John Lofthouse
john.lofthouse@taylorwimpey.com by 29th June 2015.