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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage vendor relationships and optimise procurement processes for a leading telecom company.
- Company: Join TalkTalk Business, a pioneer in UK connectivity with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus scheme, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Why this job: Be part of an ambitious team shaping the future of business connectivity.
- Qualifications: Experience in vendor management and strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working model with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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Talent Acquisition Manager at TalkTalk Business | Ex-PZ Cussons, Ex-NCC Group
About Us
For over 25 years, we\’ve been supporting UK businesses of all sizes, providing exceptional connectivity, competitive pricing, and outstanding service. While we take pride in our legacy, our focus is firmly on the future with a fibre-first, future-ready approach.
Our ultra-reliable network is trusted by more than 1 in 10 businesses, and our comprehensive range of innovative solutions are designed to help any business achieve its full potential.
If you are looking to be part of an ambitious team that is constantly evolving and empowered to deliver excellence, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and help us shape the future of business connectivity.
The Role
Reporting into the Chief Finance Officer (CFO), we are seeking an experienced Vendor Manager to play a key role in optimising supplier relationships and procurement processes during our transition to a standalone business. The Vendor Manager will be responsible for developing and maintaining strong relationships with strategic vendors, overseeing the procurement of goods and services, managing contract lifecycles, and driving cost optimisation while ensuring the availability of quality goods and services to support organisational operations.
This role requires a combination of relationship management, commercial acumen, and strategic thinking to achieve optimal value, mitigate risks, and foster continuous improvement in vendor partnerships.
Responsibilities
The responsibilities for the role include, but are not limited to:
- Strategic Vendor Management: Build and manage relationships with strategic vendors, ensuring alignment with business goals, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Procurement Process Oversight: Oversee procurement from requisition to purchase order, ensuring timely delivery, supplier selection, contract negotiations, and proper documentation.
- Contract Management & Negotiations: Lead complex contract negotiations, manage the full contract lifecycle, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance and alignment with business needs.
- Financial Management: Manage vendor budgets, track spending, analyse pricing proposals, and lead cost-saving initiatives while maintaining service quality.
- Risk & Compliance Management: Monitor and mitigate vendor-related risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and develop contingency plans to maintain service continuity.
- Process Improvement & Reporting: Optimise procurement and vendor management processes, create performance dashboards, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Skills and experience we are looking for
- Proven track record of success working in the same or similar positions, such as Direct/Indirect Procurement Manager, Supplier Manager, Supplier Relationship Manager etc.
- Exceptional negotiation and influence skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong vendor relationships.
- Strong business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities, with an ability to align vendor strategies with organisational goals.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of engaging stakeholders at all levels.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, with a focus on optimising vendor performance and managing risk.
- Leadership and stakeholder management expertise, with a track record of driving cross-functional collaboration.
How you will work
At TalkTalk Business we understand the importance of flexibility and connection in the workplace. That’s why we have adopted a hybrid approach to working. Our aim is for our full time team to spend 3 days a week at our HQ in Soapworks, Salford Quays with the remaining days offering the option to work from home. We want to ensure you enjoy the collaboration and connection of the office environment, combined with the convenience of remote working.
What can we offer you?
- Competitive Salary and Bonus Scheme: Earn a rewarding salary with a bonus scheme designed to recognise your hard work and dedication.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: Support your wellbeing, achieve a work-life balance, and plan for the future with our all-inclusive benefits.
- Free TalkTalk Broadband: Enjoy complimentary TalkTalk broadband as an added perk for all employees.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Take advantage of opportunities for career advancement and personal development.
- Additional Perks: Participate in exciting company events, take advantage of volunteering days, and enjoy electric car charging points available at our HQ.
Be #ACE!
Be Ambitious, Be Connected, Be Empowered.
We embrace challenge, create resilient relationships and nurture our collaborative culture, while building a positive and rewarding environment where everyone takes pride in the part they play.
We will take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure all candidates have a fair recruitment process to eliminate stereotypes, unconscious bias or prejudice.
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Purchasing, Supply Chain, and Other
- Telecommunications
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Vendor Manager employer: TalkTalk Business
Contact Detail:
TalkTalk Business Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vendor Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Vendor Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its vendors. Understand their business model and how they manage supplier relationships. This will show you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Vendor Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate contracts effectively. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We want to see your application and help you on your journey to becoming part of our ambitious team. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status.
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 vendor management, procurement processes, and any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your strategic thinking and negotiation skills, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is crucial for this position, make sure your application reflects your written communication skills. Keep it clear, concise, and professional. We love a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at TalkTalk Business!
How to prepare for a job interview at TalkTalk Business
✨Know Your Vendors
Before the interview, research the key vendors that TalkTalk Business works with. Understand their services and how they align with the company's goals. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you discuss how you can optimise these relationships.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've led, focusing on the outcomes and how you achieved them. Be ready to discuss your approach to contract management and how you ensure compliance while driving cost savings.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Think about how you can align vendor strategies with organisational goals. Prepare to discuss specific strategies you've implemented in previous roles that have led to improved vendor performance and risk mitigation.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Highlight your experience in stakeholder management. Be prepared to talk about how you've collaborated with cross-functional teams in the past and how you plan to engage stakeholders at all levels to foster strong vendor relationships.
