Role Overview

The Junior Buyer will support the Procurement Team in sourcing materials, equipment, and services across the business, ensuring best value, compliance, and timely delivery. This role is ideal for someone with strong attention to detail, an interest in supply chain and commercial processes, and a desire to develop within a fast-paced utilities environment.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Supplier Management

• Assist in raising purchase orders and processing requisitions accurately and efficiently.
• Communicate with suppliers to obtain quotes, confirm pricing, lead times, and availability.
• Support price comparisons, cost-saving initiatives, and supplier evaluations.
• Maintain positive working relationships with key suppliers and escalate issues where necessary.

Procurement Administration

• Update procurement trackers, logs, and spreadsheets with accurate data.
• Ensure all procurement documents, pricing files, and contracts are stored correctly and kept up to date.

Cost & Compliance

• Assist with cost analysis and highlighting variances against expected pricing.
• Ensure all purchases meet company policies, and are within specified approval limits.
• Support price reviews by providing documentation, price files, or records when required.

Internal Coordination

• Work closely with internal departments including Logistics, Operations, TM, and ORS to understand material requirements.
• Resolve invoice queries by liaising with Finance, suppliers, and site teams.
• Support procurement tasks relating to new starters (PPE, equipment), fleet, and project-specific materials as needed.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong organisation skills and ability to manage multiple tasks at once.
• Confident communicator with the ability to build rapport with suppliers and colleagues.
• Good numerical accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
• Proactive attitude, willingness to learn, and interest in procurement/supply chain.