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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Help define strategies and engage suppliers to drive innovation and value.
- Company: Join AXA, a global leader in insurance and financial services.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements, competitive salary, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in procurement while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and experience in managing supplier relationships.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
About AXA
AXA is a global leader in insurance and financial services, dedicated to helping customers protect what matters most to them. As the sixth-largest insurance company in the world, we provide a wide range of services, including health, car, home, and business insurance. We support millions of customers worldwide, helping them navigate life's uncertainties with confidence.
Job overview
Reporting into the Category Lead, alongside a Sourcing Manager, you’ll help define category strategies and supplier engagement plans in collaboration with supplier owners across the business, with the aim of driving innovation, resilience and long‑term value. A key part of the role will be the delivery of procurement activities and engagements within the Professional Services category, adhering to the required business processes. You’ll provide guidance to stakeholders to ensure the outcomes delivered are effective, compliant and provide value for money.
Key responsibilities
- Support category strategy development and supplier engagement plans with the Category Lead and Sourcing Manager, focusing on value, cost, quality and risk reduction.
- Act as a trusted advisor to stakeholders, promoting objective, data‑driven decisions aligned with best practices.
- Collaborate with procurement teams and the Business Partner team to ensure a consistent, professional engagement experience.
- Lead negotiations for favourable commercial terms and monitor procurement performance, including cost savings and value.
- Manage supplier relationship transitions to BAU Supplier Relationship Managers when appropriate.
- Ensure compliance with procurement processes, policies, FCA/PRA regulations, and internal governance frameworks.
- Identify and mitigate procurement risks while supporting continuous process improvement.
Work arrangements
At AXA we work smart, empowering our people to balance their time between home and the office in a way that works best for them, their team and our customers. You’ll work at least two days a week (40%) away from home, moving to three days a week (60%) in the future. Away from home means attending the office, visiting clients or attending industry events. We’re also happy to consider flexible working arrangements, which you can discuss with Talent Acquisition.
Your skills & experience
- Proven ability to negotiate favourable terms and conditions with suppliers, securing advantageous service levels.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, able to clearly articulate requirements, expectations and feedback to diverse audiences.
- Skilled in managing relationships with internal stakeholders such as legal, finance and operational teams, fostering collaboration and trust.
- Experienced in conflict resolution and problem‑solving to effectively address disputes or misunderstandings.
- Capable of analysing procurement data and metrics to inform decisions and evaluate sourcing options.
- Proficient in benchmarking pricing, understanding cost drivers and assessing supplier capabilities.
- Well‑versed in legal terminology and contractual clauses, ensuring compliance and mitigating risks through contract review and analysis.
- Demonstrated success in planning, executing and managing procurement projects from start to finish, within scope, time and budget.
Eligibility
As a precondition of employment for this role, you must be eligible and authorised to work in the United Kingdom.
Equal Opportunities
We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer and don’t discriminate against employees or potential employees based on protected characteristics.
Sourcing Specialist Professional Services in Birmingham employer: AXA Group
Contact Detail:
AXA Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sourcing Specialist Professional Services in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand AXA's mission and how your skills as a Sourcing Specialist can contribute to their goals. Tailor your responses to show you're the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role involves securing favourable terms, be ready to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively during interviews. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining AXA and being part of their innovative team.
We think you need these skills to ace Sourcing Specialist Professional Services in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Sourcing Specialist role. Highlight your negotiation skills and experience in managing supplier relationships, as these are key for us at AXA. Use specific examples that showcase your ability to drive value and compliance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about procurement and how your skills align with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your experience with data-driven decision-making and stakeholder engagement.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong communication is crucial for this role, make sure your application reflects your ability to articulate ideas clearly. Whether it's in your CV or cover letter, use concise language and structure your points logically to demonstrate your written communication prowess.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at AXA Group
✨Know Your Procurement Basics
Before the interview, brush up on procurement processes and best practices. Understand the key responsibilities of a Sourcing Specialist in Professional Services, especially around supplier engagement and negotiation tactics. This will help you speak confidently about how you can add value to their team.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare specific examples of past negotiations where you secured favourable terms or resolved conflicts. Be ready to discuss your approach to achieving advantageous service levels and how you’ve managed relationships with stakeholders. This will demonstrate your capability to act as a trusted advisor.
✨Understand AXA's Values
Familiarise yourself with AXA’s mission and values, particularly their focus on customer protection and innovation. Tailor your responses to reflect how your skills align with their goals, especially in driving long-term value and risk reduction in procurement activities.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their current challenges in procurement or how they measure success in supplier relationships. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.