Supplier Relationship Director

About the Role:

The Supplier Relationship Director will lead part of the Sourcing & Procurement function, driving procurement initiatives that enhance value across the organization while delivering significant cost savings. This role requires a dynamic leader with a proven track record in stakeholder management, category management, and the implementation of innovative procurement techniques.

Key Responsibilities:

• Stakeholder Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders, ensuring their procurement needs and expectations are effectively communicated and addressed. Facilitate regular meetings with key stakeholders to provide updates on initiatives, gather feedback, and align on priorities. Develop and maintain strong relationships with internal business units to foster collaboration and ensure sourcing strategies are aligned with overall business objectives.
• Pipeline Development: Develop and implement a strategic vendor pipeline that identifies upcoming and prioritizes them based on business needs and potential impact. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to forecast demand and align activities with business objectives, ensuring proactive engagement with suppliers. Monitor industry trends and market conditions to inform strategies and identify new opportunities for procurement.
• Cost Reduction: Design and execute cost reduction strategies that focus on optimizing third-party vendor spend, leveraging negotiation tactics and supplier relationship management to achieve significant savings. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure savings outcomes, ensuring continuous tracking and reporting of procurement performance against targets. Collaborate with finance teams to analyse budget impacts and validate the financial benefits of sourcing initiatives.
• E-Sourcing Tools: Champion the adoption and utilization of E-Sourcing tools across the organization, providing training and support to team members and stakeholders. Design and implement eSourcing strategies that leverage technology to drive efficiency in supplier selection processes, including RFPs, eAuctions, and supplier evaluations. Analyse and report on the effectiveness of eSourcing initiatives, identifying areas for improvement and optimization.
• Promotion of Sourcing Techniques: Actively promote innovative sourcing techniques, such as RFPs, eAuctions, and reverse auctions, to enhance competitive bidding and supplier engagement. Develop best practice guidelines and training materials to educate stakeholders on effective sourcing strategies and methodologies. Lead sourcing workshops and training sessions to build organizational capability in advanced procurement techniques.
• Vendor Segmentation: Oversee the development and execution of vendor segmentation strategies that align with business goals and drive optimal sourcing outcomes. Conduct thorough market analysis and supplier assessments to inform category strategies and identify opportunities for consolidation and savings. Collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement sourcing plans that maximize value and minimize risk across multiple categories.
• Spend Analysis: Utilize data analytics tools to conduct comprehensive spend analyses, identifying trends, patterns, and opportunities for cost savings. Develop detailed reports and dashboards to communicate spend insights to stakeholders, facilitating data-driven decision-making. Collaborate with finance and accounting teams to ensure accurate tracking of spend data and alignment with financial reporting.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of sourcing professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. Set clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback to team members to support their professional growth and development. Encourage innovative thinking and problem-solving within the team, promoting a proactive approach to sourcing challenges.
• Behavioural Leadership: Model exemplary conduct and professionalism, setting the tone for the team and promoting a positive organizational culture. Encourage open communication and collaboration among team members and stakeholders, fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Lead by example in demonstrating ethical sourcing practices and compliance with organizational policies and procedures.

What We Are Looking For:

Basic Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business Studies, IT, or Finance.
• An advanced degree (e.g., MBA or Master's in Supply Chain Management) is strongly desired for strategic leadership roles.
• At least 10+ years of progressive experience in a procurement role, with a focus on strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management.
• Demonstrated experience in leading large-scale procurement initiatives and driving organizational change.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing strategic vendor pipelines and cost reduction strategies, with measurable financial impact.
• Expertise in contract management, particularly with Managed Services Providers, ensuring compliance and value optimization.
• Advanced proficiency in designing and implementing eSourcing strategies, including RFPs, eAuctions, and supplier evaluations.
• Strong capabilities in data analytics tools for conducting spend analyses and generating actionable insights.
• Exceptional leadership skills with experience in mentoring and developing high-performing teams.
• Outstanding presentation and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact and influence senior management and key stakeholders.

Additional Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong strategic thinking abilities, with experience in vendor segmentation strategies and market analysis.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving skills, with a high attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize in a dynamic work environment.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex procurement strategies to diverse audiences effectively.
• Experience working in a global environment, with an understanding of cross-cultural dynamics and the ability to drive initiatives across different regions.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Health care coverage designed for the mind and body.
• Flexible Downtime: Generous time off helps keep you energized for your time on.
• Continuous Learning: Access a wealth of resources to grow your career and learn valuable new skills.
• Invest in Your Future: Secure your financial future through competitive pay, retirement planning, a continuing education program with a company-matched student loan contribution, and financial wellness programs.
• Family Friendly Perks: It’s not just about you. S&P Global has perks for your partners and little ones, too, with some best-in-class benefits for families.
• Beyond the Basics: From retail discounts to referral incentive awards—small perks can make a big difference.