Head Office, 60 Boucher Place, Belfast, BT12 6HT.
Summary of role
This is an exciting opportunity for a graduate from a construction / business / administration / finance (or equivalent) disciplines to commence a career in buying with a leading construction business based in Belfast. Gilbert-Ash is an employee-owned company and holds accreditations including Investors in People and Diversity Mark. The company was also recognised in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025 list. In this role, you will receive training and mentorship, along with the opportunity to develop and progress your career.
The Buying department is responsible for procuring materials, equipment, and services for construction projects, ensuring quality, cost-efficiency and timely delivery. The department also supports the company’s sustainability and environmental objectives by sourcing responsibly, minimising environmental impact, and promoting a sustainable supply chain.
- Supporting buyers in sourcing and procuring construction materials, equipment, and services in accordance with project specifications, budget constraints, and programme requirements.
- Providing operational and administrative support to the Buying team by comparing, analysing, and negotiating to secure the most favourable terms, in line with the company’s procurement guidelines and sustainable procurement policy.
- Ensuring quality materials are procured and delivered for all contracts in accordance with the Contract Programme and Procurement Schedule.
- Collaborating closely with the commercial and project teams to ensure procurement aligns with project budgets.
- Assessing current and future material procurement requirements, identifying any special or critical material and communicating any supply issues.
- Monitoring market trends and identifying cost-saving and sustainable value engineering opportunities.
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and manufacturers and other relevant stakeholders.
- Identifying and onboarding new suppliers to strengthen supply chain resilience and sustainability, whilst ensuring successful completion of the Company’s supplier approval process.
- Monitoring and maintaining accurate records of supplier performance, including quality, reliability, and service levels, to inform future procurement decisions.
- Maintaining comprehensive and accurate records of procurement activities related to contracts on Gateway to ensure full traceability.
- Ensuring the smooth running of the Department and maintaining control procedures in accordance with ISO 9001, ISO 14001 as well as ISO 45001.
- Collating relevant documentation in relation to BREEAM including EPD’s and responsible sourcing certs.
- Being aware of and complying with the Company’s Health & Safety Policy.
- Being aware of and complying with the Company’s HR Policy and Procedures.
- Fulfilling Company CPD requirements, undertaking all relevant training and development activities as required.
- Adhering to the Company’s Environmental, Social and Governance policy.
The above list is not exhaustive, and the post holder may be required to take on other duties and responsibilities for the effective and efficient performance of this role.
Person specification
Required Experience:
- Previous administrative or procurement support experience.
- Working to tight deadlines.
- Preparing, producing and presenting reports.
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a Buying / Estimating role.
- Communicating and negotiating with suppliers.
- Understanding of procurement processes, contracts, and supplier management.
- Sound understanding of the construction process.
- Relevant technical knowledge.
- Previous work experience within the building/construction industry.
- Knowledge of sustainable procurement practices
- Experience working in a fast-paced commercial environment
Required Education:
- A minimum of a 2:1 or above in Business, Economics, Mathematics, or related analytical discipline.
- GCSE Maths and English.
- CIPS Membership.
- CIOB Accreditation.
- Recognised First Aid at Work Qualification.
Required Skills / Abilities:
- Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and data interpretation.
- Ability to create and maintain good working relationships.
- Excellent written and oral skills.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office Packages.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently.
- Knowledge of Gateway software package.
Other:
- Eligibility to work within the UK and ROI.
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