At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead vendor management and build strong relationships with key IT and software vendors.
- Company: Join a dynamic international procurement team focused on digital services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, enhanced parental leave, and excellent onsite facilities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact by driving value from critical contracts and partnerships.
- Qualifications: Experience in vendor management with strong IT and digital expertise.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
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
- Flexible and hybrid working
- Enhanced parental leave
- Excellent onsite facilities and free parking
Vendor Manager in Manchester employer: Innovate
Innovate is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Bristol, where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide ample opportunities for professional development and training, ensuring that our team members are equipped to excel in their roles. Our hybrid work model promotes a healthy work-life balance, making Innovate a rewarding place to build a meaningful career in the defence sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vendor Manager in Manchester
✨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 Innovate.
✨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 Vendor Manager in Manchester
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 Innovate:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Innovate. 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 Innovate.
How to prepare for a job interview at Innovate
✨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 Innovate!
✨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 Innovate. 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 Innovate's culture.
