The Buyer’s job consists in matching suppliers with the company’s needs (investment projects, outsourcing, etc.), while:

• managing risks (financial, legal, operational, image)
• creating growth (innovation, improving processes, etc.)
• improving the margin and cash flows
• incorporating a corporate social responsibility approach

The buyer’s role is similar to that of an orchestra conductor, coordinating all the parties involved in a purchasing project (decision maker, legal expert, management control, IT, user, suppliers, etc.).

How would you describe the position of Real Estate Business Buyer?

In charge of “real estate purchases”, I assist the Real Estate Division in developing its objectives and more particularly, I take part in the deployment of the new LCL branch concept.

A buyer’s duties vary widely and require a range of skills. Our work starts when we receive an expressed need that we have to challenge and define in order to match it with the supplier market. We then seek suppliers in the market that are able to meet our needs and carry out calls for tender to obtain bids in line with the purchasing strategy defined by the buyer in terms of cost/quality/time frame/risk/CSR/innovation.

Negotiation of the contract and follow up of its implementation with decision makers are essential to ensure the proper application of the agreements reached. Alongside these tasks, buyers obtain information via trade fairs, company visits and benchmarking with other buyers; they propose product or process innovations and they manage relations with suppliers by monitoring progress plans, difficulties encountered, etc.

What are the peak periods of your job during the year?

The most important times for buyers are budget sign-off periods, which trigger the launch of new projects, followed by contract renewals, which require agreeing with our decision makers to negotiate new terms with suppliers, as well as supplier steering committee meetings to discuss the past year and the outlook, areas for improvement, disputes, etc.

Can you describe your typical day?

The role of buyer is very relationship-based and enriching: it allows you to interact with a range of people. In one day, for example, we might meet with decision makers, suppliers, buyers, legal experts or an external company. These meetings are an opportunity to learn and to teach.

What career path is required to reach your position and what are the possibilities for development?

As this is a “commercial” role, it is preferable to have proven professional experience in sales and marketing and/or a degree in purchasing. There are other, additional ways of obtaining a job as a buyer, for example having technical expertise in the purchasing area in question.
Within the Purchasing Department, every buyer is responsible for one specific purchasing family (IT, Communications, Advisory, Real Estate, etc.).

What advice would you give to someone thinking of taking up a similar position?

If you are considering it, you have to understand the strategic role of buyers within a company and to act as the ambassador for this role, internally and externally.
This job is perfect for people who are creative, good at negotiating, dynamic, communicative, strong leaders, collaborative and strategic.