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- Tasks: Lead supplier relationships and develop innovative supply chain strategies.
- Company: Thames Water, the UK's largest water and wastewater company.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous annual leave, performance-related pay, and private medical care.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities while building a sustainable future.
- Qualifications: Experience in supplier relationship management and project teams required.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Reporting to the Capital Procurement Business Partner, this role will be expected to ensure compliance with Thames Water supply chain objectives and enhancing value by challenging business as usual ways of works and developing innovative supply chain strategies. As an experienced Procurement resource, this role will be accountable for delivery of category and supplier development plans, whilst ensuring that these are delivered in compliance with the Procurement Act 2023 (Utilities) and Thames Water Policies and Procedures.
What you’ll be doing as a Supplier Relationship Manager:
- Leading on supply chain engagement - including Performance and Strategic Business Reviews
- Be seen by the business as the Procurement /Commercial expert for the category with market knowledge and insight not seen elsewhere
- Build strategic and innovative category plans and own the contract improvement opportunity register for category area
- Draft, negotiate and obtain agreement to commercial contracts ensuring that operational and commercial risks to business are fully understood and minimised
- Build collaborative, high-performing supplier relationships that support delivery, innovation, and continuous improvement
- Engage proactively with internal stakeholders to shape the category approach, business needs, spend and suppliers
- Support the delivery of a risk management plan/strategy. Identify and manage category and supplier level risks and escalating to the Business Partner where appropriate
- Ensure timely and accurate reporting on the sourcing projects using available reporting tools
Base location – Hybrid – Clear Water Court Reading
Necessary requirements for the role:
- This will require travel to other Thames Water sites where key Stakeholders are based and to Supplier sites in the UK
What you should bring to the role:
- Full UK driving licence
- Extensive experience of supplier relationship management, including developing long-term relationships
- Engaging with internal stakeholders and the supply chain
- Experience of managing multi-disciplinary project teams
- Experience in project and/or supplier relationship management
- Track record of delivery value for money, cost efficiency and procurement innovation
- Proven ability to manage external relationships and negotiate with suppliers
Additional skills and experiences would be great to have:
- People Management skills
- Skilled in supplier negotiations and dispute resolution
- Familiarity with Procurement Act 2023 (Utilities)
What’s in it for you?
- Competitive salary from £60,000 to £80,000 per annum depending on experience
- Annual Leave - 26 days holiday per year increasing to 30 with the length of service (plus bank holidays)
- Performance-related pay plan directly linked to company performance measures and targets
- Car allowance
- Generous Pension Scheme through AON
- Private Medical Health Care
- Access to lots of benefits to help you take care of you and your family’s health and wellbeing, and your finances – from annual health MOTs and access to physiotherapy and counselling, to Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance.
Who are we?
We’re the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, with more than 16 million customers relying on us every day to supply water for their taps and toilets. We want to build a better future for all, helping our customers, communities, people, and the planet to thrive.
Working at Thames Water:
Thames Water is a unique, rewarding, and diverse place to work, where every day you can make a difference, yet no day is the same. As part of our family, you’ll enjoy meaningful career opportunities, flexible working arrangements and excellent benefits.
If you’re looking for a sustainable and successful career where you can make a daily difference to millions of people’s lives while helping to protect the world of water for future generations, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a better future for our customers, our region, and our planet.
Why choose us?
We’re committed to being a great, diverse, and inclusive place to work. We welcome applications from everyone and want to ensure you feel supported throughout the recruitment process. If you need any adjustments, whether that’s extra time, accessible formats, or anything else just let us know, we’re here to help and support.
When a crisis happens, we all rally around to support our customers. As part of Team Thames, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up to support our customers on the frontline as an ambassador. Full training will be given for what is undoubtedly an incredibly rewarding experience.
Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close the advert earlier than the advertised date, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Supplier Relationship Manager employer: Thames Water
Contact Detail:
Thames Water Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Supplier Relationship Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the procurement and supply chain world. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Thames Water’s values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your responses to highlight your supplier relationship management skills and innovative strategies.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Supplier Relationship Manager, you’ll need to showcase your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to refine your approach and build confidence before those crucial interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Thames Water family. Get your application in early to avoid missing out!
We think you need these skills to ace Supplier Relationship Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in supplier relationship management and procurement. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Supplier Relationship Manager, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In your application, emphasise your ability to develop innovative supply chain strategies and category plans. We’re looking for someone who can think outside the box, so share examples of how you've challenged the status quo in previous roles.
Highlight Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills: Since this role involves engaging with internal stakeholders, make sure to mention your experience in building collaborative relationships. We want to know how you’ve successfully worked with different teams to achieve common goals.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at Thames Water.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Water
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the Procurement Act 2023 (Utilities) and Thames Water's policies. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you understand the specific regulations that govern the role.
✨Showcase Your Relationship Skills
Prepare examples of how you've built and maintained strong supplier relationships in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your ability to engage effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Innovation
Thames Water is looking for someone who can challenge the status quo. Come prepared with ideas on how you could develop innovative supply chain strategies. This shows that you're proactive and ready to contribute to continuous improvement.
✨Practice Your Negotiation Techniques
Since negotiation is a key part of this role, think of scenarios where you've successfully negotiated contracts or resolved disputes. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes, as this will highlight your expertise in managing external relationships.