Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead vendor management and build strong relationships with key IT and software vendors.
- Company: Dynamic international procurement team based in Manchester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, pension scheme, and healthcare cash plan.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by managing critical digital and IT vendor relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in vendor management and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Enjoy a collaborative environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Manchester
Job Type: Perm, Hybrid
Role Overview
Our client is seeking a Vendor Manager to join their Procurement team. This Vendor Manager role sits within an international procurement domain, managing spend across software, hardware, IT services, networks, and cyber. As the Vendor Manager, you will lead Vendor Relationship Management (VRM) / Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) for critical digital and IT vendors, embedding best practice and driving value from key contracts and partnerships.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Vendor Management / Supplier Relationship Management across Digital Services & Solutions
- Own the Vendor Management strategy for key IT and software vendors and contracts
- Build strong relationships with senior internal stakeholders and strategic vendors
- Develop and manage vendor frameworks, SLAs, KPIs, and performance metrics
- Manage contracts across the full lifecycle, including renewals and re-competition
- Work closely with international procurement teams to align vendor management approach and upskill colleagues
Requirements
- Senior Vendor Manager or Supplier Relationship Manager with strong IT / digital experience
- MCIPS qualified or studying towards MCIPS (or equivalent experience)
- Proven experience managing strategic IT, SaaS, and software vendors
- Strong knowledge of contracts, SLAs, performance management, and commercial governance
- Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills
- Collaborative, confident, and credible at senior stakeholder level
What We Offer
- Competitive salary & bonus
- Pension scheme
- Flexible and hybrid working
- Enhanced parental leave
- Excellent onsite facilities and free parking
- Healthcare Cash Plan
- Paid overtime
Vendor Manager employer: Innovate Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Innovate Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vendor Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement and vendor management space. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Vendor Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its vendors. Understand their current challenges and think about how you can add value. We want you to walk in with confidence, ready to showcase your expertise in managing IT and software vendors.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You need to be able to clearly articulate your experience in Vendor Management and how it aligns with the job description. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror until you feel like a rockstar.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing familiar names when we’re reviewing candidates. Let’s get you that Vendor Manager position!
We think you need these skills to ace Vendor Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Vendor Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing IT and software vendors, and don’t forget to showcase your MCIPS qualifications or any relevant experience. We want to see how you can bring value to our procurement team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed vendor relationships and driven value in previous positions. Let us know what makes you tick!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Vendor Manager, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to build relationships with stakeholders. Use clear and concise language, and don’t shy away from sharing instances where your influencing skills made a difference.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application directly and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Innovate Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Vendors Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you research the key vendors relevant to the role. Understand their services, strengths, and any recent news or changes in their business. This will not only show your interest but also help you discuss how you can manage these relationships effectively.
✨Showcase Your Relationship Management Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed vendor relationships. Highlight specific strategies you used to build rapport and drive value. This will demonstrate your capability in Vendor Relationship Management, which is crucial for this role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Performance Metrics
Familiarise yourself with key performance indicators (KPIs) and service level agreements (SLAs) that are relevant to vendor management. Be prepared to discuss how you've developed and managed these metrics in previous roles, as this will be a significant part of the job.
✨Engage with Stakeholder Management Scenarios
Think about how you would approach building relationships with senior stakeholders. Prepare to discuss scenarios where you've influenced decision-making or collaborated with different teams. This will showcase your communication skills and ability to work at a senior level.
