At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead sourcing strategies and negotiations for new ship acquisitions and technical categories.
- Company: Join Carnival Corporation, a leader in the cruise industry with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Permanent role with competitive salary, dynamic workplace, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Office-based role in Southampton, with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative environment while driving sustainability and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement, strong negotiation skills, and a passion for the marine industry.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
At Carnival Corporate Shipbuilding (CCS), we manage the new ship acquisition process for all eight brands within Carnival Corporation. This includes early ship definition, shipyard selection and contract negotiation, through to construction, commissioning and warranty, as well as supporting the existing fleet in operation and identifying new innovations and emerging technologies to support the corporation’s sustainability goals.
We’re seeking a dynamic Senior Manager, Strategic Sourcing to join the Strategic Sourcing team to drive improvements in assurance of supply, quality service levels and cost. This role will be based in Carnival House in Southampton, on a permanent basis.
We believe in the power of diversity to drive success, valuing a blend of backgrounds, experiences, and skills. We're searching for someone who can bring fresh ideas and a new perspective to our team, as well as our ships.
Role Overview
You will act as the lead sourcing representative in Strategic Sourcing, reporting to the Senior Director, Strategic Sourcing. You will be responsible for developing and delivering sourcing strategies across assigned technical and newbuild categories to optimise cost, quality, supply assurance, and supplier performance. The role leads cross-brand sourcing initiatives, supplier negotiations, and vendor development activities, leveraging Carnival's global scale to drive value, innovation, standardisation, and risk mitigation.
Key accountabilities include:
- Working with key stakeholders across the brands to identify opportunities to drive value, innovation, and competitive advantage for the corporation in relation to newbuild and technical sourcing categories.
- Leading the development of sourcing strategies that leverage Carnival’s global scale, working closely with the sourcing and technical disciplines within Carnival Corporation to ensure business requirements are met.
- Coordinating cross-brand sourcing activities to identify equipment harmonization opportunities and drive through life costs benefits with relevant sourcing leaders within the brands.
- Developing negotiation strategies and leading negotiations with key suppliers in support of technical requirements.
- Leading vendor development activities that identify potential vendors, improve overall value with current vendors and act as a liaison between Carnival and external suppliers.
- Leading the 7 Step Sourcing process to holistically approach sourcing opportunities.
- Undertaking risk assessment activities with key vendors and managing mitigation activities.
Position Requirements
Our ideal candidates possess not only the technical skills required for sourcing but also a passion for the industry and a keen eye for detail. Your professional certifications will be the foundation of your role within our team.
Required Qualifications and Skills
- Skilled and experienced in procurement process disciplines including expert negotiating skills, category management, prioritisation and alignment of sourcing opportunities, market and cost analysis, supplier selection, analytical skills (data analysis fundamentals, TCO modelling).
- Experience identifying and delivering measurable cost savings, procurement KPIs and supplier performance improvements.
- Demonstrable direct and/or indirect leadership within the marine or offshore industries.
- Competent Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables, lookups, macros & VBA.
- Business, Engineering, Supply Chain or Procurement qualification (or equivalent) desirable but not essential.
About You
You thrive in a collaborative environment yet are capable of working with a high degree of accuracy and accountability. Your qualifications are just the beginning; we're looking for team members who are eager to learn, grow, and contribute to our collective success.
Personal Qualities
- Self-driven, resilient and proactive approach with ownership from initiation through completion.
- Great negotiator with a natural business acumen.
- Strong judgement, accountability and the ability to work independently in an international team environment.
- Comfortable operating in ambiguous and complex environments with changing priorities and competing stakeholder requirements.
Why Join Us?
This role is classified as a CCS06, offered as a full-time position, on a permanent contract, based in Carnival House, Southampton being office based three days a week, including Wednesdays and Thursdays. We offer a dynamic and inclusive workplace where your work makes a real impact.
Application Note: Given the opportunities we provide, we encourage prompt applications. Due to the popularity of our roles and our commitment to finding the best talent, we might close applications earlier than advertised.
Senior Manager, Marine Strategic Sourcing in Southampton employer: Carnival Corporation
Carnival UK is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and well-being, offering a vibrant work culture in Southampton. As a Contact Centre Sales Advisor, you will benefit from extensive training, hybrid working options, and a range of perks including discounted cruising and health plans, all while being part of a supportive community that values your contributions and encourages personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manager, Marine Strategic Sourcing in Southampton
✨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 Carnival Corporation.
✨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 Senior Manager, Marine Strategic Sourcing in Southampton
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 Carnival Corporation:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Carnival Corporation. 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 Carnival Corporation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Carnival Corporation
✨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 Carnival Corporation!
✨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 Carnival Corporation. 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 Carnival Corporation's culture.