Buyer & Plant Hire Support (Construction / Shopfitting / Fit-Out)

St Annes / Blackpool | Full-time | Permanent £27,000 – £31,500 per annum dependent on experience + Training About Thompsons At Thompsons, we specialise in delivering high-quality shopfitting, fit-out, and construction projects across the UK. Key sectors include hospitality, hotels, quick serve, and new build developments. Working with many global brands, we deliver projects on a fast-track basis, often within live environments, where accuracy, responsiveness, and teamwork are critical. Our reputation is built on consistently meeting tight deadlines, maintaining high standards, and delivering within budgets. Every department plays a crucial role in this success—and our Buying team sits at the centre of project delivery. The Role We are seeking a capable and motivated Buyer & Plant Hire Support (Construction / Shopfitting / Fit-Out) to join our team. This role will suit either: A Buyer within construction or fit-out Or a high-potential junior candidate with some industry exposure who is ready to step up and develop quickly We are open to individuals who are early in their career but demonstrate the drive, work ethic, and attitude needed to succeed in a fast-paced procurement environment. You will be responsible for sourcing and managing the supply of materials, fixtures, fittings, and supporting in the hiring of plant and skips, whilst ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Key Responsibilities Procurement & Purchasing Source and procure shopfitting and construction materials, including joinery, fixtures, fittings, finishes, and specialist items Obtain and assess supplier and subcontractor quotations against drawings, specifications, and project requirements Raise, manage, and track purchase orders through to delivery and invoicing Support value-led purchasing decisions to achieve best cost and quality outcomes Project-Based Procurement Work closely with Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors, and site teams Interpret specifications and schedules to determine procurement requirements Plan procurement activities in line with fast-track project programmes Ensure materials and services are delivered on time to avoid delays Supplier & Supply Chain Management Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and manufacturers Source specialist suppliers for bespoke items where required Negotiate pricing, lead times, and availability Monitor supplier performance and resolve any issues quickly and effectively Cost Control & Commercial Awareness Support delivery of projects within budget constraints Identify opportunities for cost savings and alternative sourcing Work alongside the commercial team to ensure alignment with project budgets Maintain visibility of procurement spend across projects Logistics & Coordination Coordinate deliveries to site, including phased and just-in-time deliveries Manage procurement requirements across multiple concurrent projects Liaise with site teams to ensure materials are available when required Compliance & Systems Ensure materials meet required specifications and standards Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation Use systems such as Sage 200 (training and support provided where necessary) Skills & Experience Experience or exposure to construction, shopfitting, fit-out, building materials and plant hire Understanding of procurement, purchasing, or supply chain processes Broad knowledge (or willingness to learn) of building materials used in key sec Familiarity with Sage 200 advantageous Strong organisational skills with high attention to detail Good standard of English and Maths Competent use of IT systems including Excel Personal Attributes Strong work ethic with a determination to see tasks through to completion Able to perform in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment Professional, dependable, and accountable Enthusiastic with a genuine interest in learning about new materials and suppliers Proactive, solutions-focused, and resilient under pressure A team player who contributes to the overall success of the business Why Join Thompsons? Be part of a business delivering high-quality, fast-track construction and shopfitting projects Ongoing training and development, including support with internal systems Work within a supportive and experienced team environment Play a key role in maintaining our reputation for delivery, reliability, and repeat business Working Environment Fast-track programmes with tight deadlines and high expectations Multiple projects running simultaneously across different locations High level of responsibility and autonomy A culture where performance, accuracy, and commitment are valued REF-(Apply online only)