At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sourcing strategies and manage supplier relationships to drive value in our supply chain.
- Company: Join Aramark, a global leader in foodservice and procurement.
- Benefits: Hybrid work, international travel, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse workplace that values inclusion and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on procurement while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in sourcing or procurement, strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
This role sits at the heart of how we manage suppliers, control spend, and drive value across our UK Supply Chain. You’ll take ownership of key categories, shaping sourcing strategies that support both commercial performance and operational delivery across Aramark and Avendra International. You’ll lead end‑to‑end sourcing activity — from strategy and supplier selection through to negotiation, contracting, and performance management — ensuring we deliver value, consistency, and innovation across the business. This role suits someone who is commercially minded, structured in their approach, and confident working with stakeholders and suppliers at all levels. If you enjoy owning categories, influencing decisions, and improving how procurement delivers impact, this role offers strong scope and visibility.
What you’ll be doing
- Own and deliver category strategies aligned to business objectives and operational needs
- Lead sourcing activity across assigned categories, including RFI/RFP, negotiation, and contracting
- Manage supplier relationships, performance, and ongoing commercial agreements
- Analyse category spend and identify cost-saving and value improvement opportunities
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies, governance, and best practice
- Partner with logistics and operational teams to align sourcing with supply chain priorities
- Support product and category development initiatives, including trials and approvals
- Drive supplier onboarding, due diligence, and contract implementation
- Contribute to sustainability and ethical sourcing objectives across your categories
What we’re looking for
- Proven experience in sourcing, procurement, or category management (minimum 3+ years)
- Background within foodservice, retail, or a related supply chain environment
- Strong commercial negotiation and contract management capability
- Experience managing supplier relationships and performance
- Confident working with stakeholders across functions and levels
Nice to have
- CIPS qualification or working towards it
- Experience supporting sustainability or responsible sourcing initiatives
What we offer
- Ownership of key categories with real commercial impact
- A collaborative, international procurement environment
- Opportunities to contribute to European and global sourcing initiatives
We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, supported, and able to thrive. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
Locations
Contact Details:
Avendra International - Europe Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Sourcing Manager in Guildford, Surrey
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Avendra International - Europe.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Sourcing Manager in Guildford, Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Avendra International - Europe:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Avendra International - Europe. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Avendra International - Europe.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avendra International - Europe
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Avendra International - Europe!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Avendra International - Europe. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Avendra International - Europe's culture.
