Supplier Manager

We are delighted to be supporting a well-known organisation based in Warrington who are looking to grow their Procurement function. As the Supplier Manager, you will lead the strategic management and development of key suppliers to maximise overall cost, risk, relationship, innovation, and performance value.

You will understand the full procurement / commercial life cycle but really enjoy the Contract Management side. With a flair for collaborating, you will support the relevant internal stakeholders to oversee the critical business suppliers, implementing the framework, and delivering significant cost savings aligned with the scorecard.

Joining a strong commercial function, it would be advantageous to have experience in Corporate / Professional Services or Fleet Procurement.

Main Responsibilities:

• Manage and develop critical suppliers, ensuring adherence to the Supplier Management Framework.
• Collaborate with the wider procurement team and sourcing stakeholders to optimise cost, risk, relationship, innovation, and performance value.
• Deliver ongoing savings throughout the contract lifecycle, addressing variations, disputes, and driving overall value.
• Establish collaborative relationships with strategic suppliers and stakeholders, supporting operational contract owners.
• Create and deliver a qualified savings pipeline, collaborating with stakeholders and approved by Finance.
• Identify evolving business requirements, manage contract changes, renewals, and demand management activities.
• Introduce supplier-enabled innovation capabilities for competitive advantage.
• Contribute to Integrated Market Planning reviews, aligning priorities with relevant stakeholder's objectives.
• Managing a small team fostering collaboration and teamwork.

Skills, Qualifications, and Experience:

• Extensive experience in a Contract Manager, Supplier Management or Procurement / Commercial role with collaboration at a senior level.
• Knowledge of key supplier management/collaboration processes, tools, and methodologies.
• Strong negotiation, relationship development, and dispute resolution skills.
• Politically savvy with exemplary influencing strategies.
• Demonstrable problem-solving experience in large, complex organisations.
• Experience with cross-functional collaborative working methods.
• Project management experience is advantageous.
• Preferably degree-educated with relevant post-graduate qualifications (CIPS, RICS, MBA, MSC).

For the successful person, this role offers up to £55,000 + a generous benefits package.

The role is hybrid and will require you to be on site 3 days a week.