Contracts Supply Manager

The continuing growth of Barrie Knitwear creates a more complex supplier relationship that needs to be effectively managed. Barrie Knitwear has recognised the need for a new position to manage this situation.

What will you be doing?

• Supplier Management:

• Develop and maintain relationships with key suppliers and vendors, ensuring they meet the company’s standards for quality, cost, delivery, and performance.

• Monitor supplier performance and conduct regular reviews to mitigate risks, drive improvements, and ensure long-term partnerships.

• Identify and assess new suppliers that meet the company’s operational and strategic requirements.

• Contract Negotiation & Management:

• Lead contract negotiations, ensuring optimal terms, pricing, and conditions to meet business objectives.

• Draft, review, and manage supply contracts in compliance with UK/EU law and company policies.

• Ensure all contracts contain clear terms and conditions, and monitor contract performance to ensure both parties meet their obligations.

• Procurement Strategy & Cost Management:

• Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with company goals, drives cost reduction whilst maintaining quality and delivery standards.

• Manage budgets and forecasts related to procurement and supply contracts.

• Continuously seek opportunities to optimise costs and drive efficiency in the supply chain.

• Risk Management & Compliance:

• Identify and mitigate risks in the supply chain, including supplier financial instability, geopolitical risks, or supply disruptions.

• Ensure all suppliers adhere to health and safety, environmental, and ethical standards.

• Stay updated on changes to UK and international regulations affecting supply contracts and procurement.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with product development, operations, maintenance, finance, and legal teams to ensure alignment of supply chain activities with overall business goals.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to forecast demand and ensure the timely delivery of materials and services.

• Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Use data analytics to assess supplier performance, market trends, and contract effectiveness.

• Prepare regular reports on supplier performance, contract status, and cost savings for senior management.

We have a fantastic opportunity available for a Contracts Supply Manager to play a crucial role in managing our supplier relationships, negotiating contracts, and ensuring the conditions for timely and cost-effective procurement of materials and services by operational teams. This position will oversee all aspects of supplier management, from sourcing to contract negotiation and compliance. The successful candidate will be an expert in contract management, with strong knowledge of supply chain & manufacturing best practices both in the UK and Europe.

The scope of this role includes oversight of raw material suppliers, manufacturing partners, capital items, building & equipment maintenance, and general service providers. Your sphere of Geographical influence will include mainly the UK for raw materials and Europe for manufacturing. You will have no direct line management responsibilities however you will be a subject-matter expert capable of influencing and building relationships across the business., * Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Procurement, or a related field. CIPS certification is desirable.

• Proven experience in contract management and procurement, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment.

• Knowledge of luxury goods industry / fashion industry / knitwear craftmanship highly preferred.

• Strong negotiation skills with a proven track record of securing advantageous terms and conditions.

• Excellent knowledge of UK & EU contract law and procurement regulations.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to use data to drive decision-making.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and procurement software.

• Languages: French & Italian desirable

Competitive Salary + Hybrid Working Available (Dependent on Location) + Career Progression + Competitive Company Pension + Wellness/Health Benefits + Discounted Gym Membership, * Flexible benefits scheme for getting active- including cycle to work and reduced gym membership fees

• Early finish on Fridays

• Flexible working – where appropriate to business needs including time off in lieu scheme

• Competitive Employer pension contribution

• Peace of mind with a generous life assurance policy

• Enhanced Wellness/Health Benefits