Job description:
We are looking for a motivated and commercially minded Car Buyer to join our growing team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a passion for the automotive industry and strong negotiation skills to source, evaluate, and purchase quality used vehicles.
The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining a high-quality vehicle stock by identifying buying opportunities, negotiating competitive prices, and building lasting relationships with suppliers, dealerships, auctions, and private sellers.
Key Responsibilities
- Source and purchase quality used vehicles from auctions, trade contacts, dealerships, and private sellers.
- Accurately assess vehicle condition, history, specifications, and market value.
- Negotiate purchase prices to maximise profitability.
- Monitor market trends, pricing, and stock demand.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and industry contacts.
- Ensure all purchases comply with company procedures and legal requirements.
- Complete all vehicle documentation accurately and efficiently.
- Work closely with the sales and preparation teams to ensure stock meets business requirements.
What We're Looking For
Essential
- Previous experience in vehicle buying, automotive sales, or a similar role.
- Strong knowledge of the UK used car market.
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
- Ability to value vehicles accurately.
- Commercial awareness and attention to detail.
- Full UK driving licence.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
Desirable
- Experience purchasing vehicles through BCA, Manheim, Aston Barclay, or other UK auctions.
- Knowledge of vehicle appraisal systems.
- Experience using dealer management systems and Data analysis platforms
What We Offer
- Competitive salary with an attractive bonus structure.
- Company pension.
- Staff discounts.
- Opportunities for career progression.
- Ongoing training and development.
- Friendly and supportive working environment.
Benefits
- Lunch on Hippo when passing probation
- Departmental incentives
- Works social events
- 2 years’ service- an additional day annual leave and £100 meal
- 5 years’ service- 2 additional days annual leave
- 10 years’ service- 3 additional days annual leave and a voucher
- Employee of the quarter scheme
- Refer a friend scheme.
- Time for you- the opportunity to earn up to 4 early finishes/late starts per year.
- Internal development and progression opportunities
- Hippo Legends scheme
- Eye care vouchers
- Access to BEN the employee wellbeing support service