Buyer - Sizewell

VSL International Ltd.; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading international construction firm is seeking a Buyer for the Sizewell C project. The role involves upstream procurement activities, managing tender processes, and engaging suppliers. Ideal candidates have experience in construction or infrastructure and possess strong negotiation skills. Competitive salary and benefits package available.

Benefits

Career development opportunities

Collaborative environment

Attractive salary and benefits

Qualifications

• Previous experience in construction, engineering, or infrastructure.
• Advantageous experience in project planning or commercial management.
• Knowledge of procurement best practices is essential.

Responsibilities

• Support procurement strategy development and execution.
• Engage and assess potential suppliers for suitability.
• Manage tender activities including queries and evaluations.
• Negotiate with subcontractors for best value.
• Ensure compliance with audit requirements.

Skills

Strong commercial acumen

Tender preparation

Supplier engagement

Contract negotiation

Financial processes understanding

Education

Previous procurement or buying experience

Experience in project planning or commercial management

Knowledge of supply chain management

Job description

As part of Bouygues Construction's Public Works division, VSL International participates in the construction of major technical structures and guarantees their structural safety and durability: transport infrastructure (bridges, tunnels), industrial and energy production structures, and commercial buildings.

VSL's Business Is Based On Four Areas Of Expertise

• Structural systems and technologies
• Civil engineering
• Foundations and soil engineering
• Preservation, structural repairs, renovation and optimisation of structures.

VSL has 4,000 employees at 25 locations worldwide (Asia and Oceania, Middle East, Europe, Latin America, Canada).

Project

Sizewell C is at the heart of the UK’s clean energy revolution. This ground‑breaking nuclear power plant project in Suffolk will play a vital role in delivering a sustainable future. Backed by EDF and the UK Government, Sizewell C is a once‑in‑a‑generation project with significant opportunities to innovate, grow, and deliver excellence.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Buyer to support the full range of upstream procurement and supply chain activities for VSL’s delivery scope on the Sizewell C project. The role will involve preparing RFPs, managing tender processes, negotiating with suppliers, placing contracts, and consolidating supply chain input to support effective client engagement. This is a key opportunity to shape procurement outcomes on one of the UK’s most complex and high‑profile infrastructure projects.

Main Responsibilities

Procurement Strategy & Planning

• Support the development and implementation of the Procurement Strategy and Plan for Sizewell C.
• Work within existing procurement procedures and suggest improvements to strengthen delivery.
• Develop bespoke contract and commercial solutions for each subcontract package.

Supplier Engagement & Tendering

• Engage with potential suppliers and assess their suitability for project requirements.
• Prepare RFI and ITT documentation for each SZC work package, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Manage tender activity, including queries, assessments, and commercial evaluations.
• Negotiate with subcontractors to achieve best value and secure favourable terms.

Contract Management & Compliance

• Manage subcontract awards and ensure requirements of the client contract are effectively cascaded through the supply chain.
• Support development of procurement schedules aligned with client timelines.
• Liaise with finance to agree pricing schedules, payment plans, insurance, and bonds.
• Handle non‑legal or non‑technical disputes with suppliers.
• Ensure procurement activities are well‑documented and compliant with audit requirements.

Governance, Reporting & Improvement

• Support internal and external audits of the procurement function.
• Assist with reporting requirements, KPI management, and maintaining procurement registers.
• Provide consolidated supply chain feedback to project leadership and client representatives.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in procurement processes.

Candidate Profile

Education & Experience

• Previous procurement or buying experience within construction, engineering, or infrastructure.
• Experience in project planning or commercial/contract management is advantageous.
• Knowledge of supply chain management processes and procurement best practices.

Technical Skills

• Strong commercial acumen with contract negotiation experience.
• Skilled in tender preparation, supplier engagement, and contract award.
• Understanding of financial processes including pricing schedules, payment terms, and cost control.

Personal Attributes

• Strong communication and influencing skills, able to build positive supplier and stakeholder relationships.
• Organised and detail‑oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Collaborative, proactive, and solution‑focused in resolving challenges.
• Committed to VSL’s values of Respect, Excellence, Courage, Integrity, Passion, and Empowerment.

Why Work With Us?

• Impactful Work: Play a key role in delivering procurement outcomes for one of the UK’s most significant clean energy projects.
• Career Development: Opportunities for growth and progression within VSL and across a global specialist contracting network.
• Collaborative Environment: Work alongside a highly skilled, diverse team within the Sizewell C Sub‑Alliance.
• Innovation & Excellence: Contribute to shaping procurement processes on a technically complex and innovative project.
• Competitive Package: Attractive salary and benefits, including pension and health coverage.

Interested? Apply now and let's build the great structures of tomorrow together!