Strategic Procurement Partnership Manager

Working within this innovative new function, this role will contribute significantly in the area of EV Charging, Sustainability and Renewable Energy. Working with our partners, the role will support Roadchef’s CaaS (Charging as a Service) business model in growing our EV charging presence on the Motorway Service Areas and will provide our customers with a reliable, simple to use, engaging and informative experience.

In this role, you’ll be part of a fast-paced agile team who will be responsible for building our Long Term vision for EV with leading edge innovative solutions that help us differentiate our products and services.

The successful candidate will:

• Review, update and execute our robust EV Charging outsourcing strategy, including managing current supplier relationships, creating and reviewing adherence to key performance metrics and governance requirements.
• Drive our partners to enhance performance and where necessary lead a supplier tendering process.
• Communicate with all internal and external stakeholders and vary content and pitch to meet the needs of the audience.
• Oversee the end-to-end implementation of EV charging infrastructure projects under the CaaS model.
• Coordinate with technical teams, contractors and vendors to ensure projects are delivered on time and to budgets.
• Provide detailed recommendations and business case to senior stakeholders.
• Stay updated on relevant EV infrastructure policies, incentives and compliance requirements.
• Advocate for favourable policies and partnerships that support EV adoption and infrastructure growth.
• Proactively identify potential risks and develop mitigation plans to minimise disruptions and ensure smooth delivery.
• Develop a robust framework for decision-making, considering cost-efficiency, scalability, risk, and long-term sustainability.
• Stay informed about the latest advancements in EV charging technology, software, and energy storage solutions.
• Track and manage project timelines, budgets, and performance metrics, adjusting as necessary to meet project goals.
• Lead supplier selection, negotiation, and contract finalisation to secure optimal terms and conditions.
• Conduct detailed supplier evaluations, balancing technical, commercial, and operational criteria.
• Conduct regular project meetings and status updates to communicate progress, address issues, and ensure stakeholders remain informed and aligned.
• Explore opportunities to integrate AI, IoT, and predictive analytics for enhanced service delivery.
• Monitor customer feedback and usage data to enhance service delivery and retention.
• Define key performance indicators (KPIs), service level agreements (SLAs), and governance frameworks to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Manage ongoing supplier relationships ensuring their adherence to help Roadchef achieve operational excellence.

Financial Management:

• Prepare budgets, forecasts and financial models to assess CaaS project viability and profitability.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as uptime, utilisation rates, and ROI for CaaS initiatives.
• Establish and lead governance structures for ongoing supplier performance management, including regular reviews and feedback mechanisms.

Proven track record in supplier evaluation and procurement is a critical requirement for this role. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and financial modelling skills are essential. Ability to navigate regulatory landscapes and manage compliance requirements is also necessary. A strong understanding of EV charging technologies and business models, along with proficiency in project management, is required. A degree in a relevant field is preferred.

We offer discounts at all of our Roadchef locations, private health care, and life assurance.

We are the UK’s 3rd largest Motorway Service Area provider with some of the UK’s largest and best restaurants and retail brands. We are proud to be the only Motorway Service Area to hold the Platinum Investor in People accreditation. We have been awarded a 3 Star rating for 2025 and have been recognised as one of the top 5 Largest Companies to work for 2024 and top 5 in Leisure & Hospitality sector 2024 in Best Companies. From cultivating a culture where all employees can bring their best selves to work to deploying diversity and initiatives that support all, we are doing what it takes to build a more equitable workplace.