At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage contracts and supplier performance to ensure maximum value and compliance.
- Company: Truro and Penwith Academy Trust, dedicated to improving education in Cornwall.
- Benefits: Supportive team environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Join a solutions-focused team committed to safeguarding and equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape a vital contract management function and make a real impact on education.
- Qualifications: Degree-level qualification and experience in contract management and supplier performance.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Truro and Penwith Academy Trust is a supportive and collaborative organisation with one primary focus: the improvement of teaching and learning within Cornwall. We are dedicated to making a positive impact on our students' lives and shaping a brighter future. To support our growing operations, we are seeking a commercial professional to oversee our Trust-wide contract portfolio.
As the Contracts and Supplier Performance Manager, you will take on a vital, Trust-wide post-award contract management and supplier performance role. Operating under the strategic direction of the Director of Operations, you will ensure our contracts deliver their intended outcomes, robust financial assurance, and maximum value for money.
You will establish consistent contract management standards, strengthen supplier accountability, manage risk, and provide operational leaders with actionable performance insights.
Key Responsibilities
- Framework & Oversight: Develop, implement, and maintain a Trust-wide contract management framework and centralised contract register.
- Performance Monitoring: Lead contract performance monitoring by interrogating KPI, SLA, invoice, and service delivery data.
- Risk & Compliance: Identify, quantify, and mitigate contractual, financial, and operational risks, ensuring strict compliance with public sector governance.
- Procurement Interface: Work closely with the Procurement Lead to manage mobilisations, variations, renewals, and exit planning.
- Relationship Management: Build professional, constructive supplier relationships while maintaining robust commercial challenge and accountability.
Who We Are Looking For
- Education: Degree-level qualification in a relevant commercial, legal, or analytical field (or equivalent experience). Professional qualifications like CIPS or WorldCC are highly desirable.
- Experience: Proven track record in post-award contract management, supplier performance monitoring, and handling complex service contracts.
- Skills: Strong financial awareness, data analysis skills, and proficiency in Microsoft 365 (particularly Excel). You must be a clear, concise communicator capable of translating complex contract data for senior leaders.
- Mobility: A full clean driving licence and access to transport to travel efficiently across Trust sites.
- Values: A deep commitment to safeguarding, equal opportunities, and the welfare of children and young people.
Why Join Us?
This is an exceptional opportunity to shape and transform a centralised contract management function from the ground up. You will work within a professional, solutions-focused team where your expertise directly supports the operational resilience and success of our academies.
Contracts and Supplier Performance Manager employer: Truro & Penwith Academy Trust
Truro and Penwith Academy Trust is an outstanding employer dedicated to enhancing educational outcomes in Cornwall. With a strong focus on collaboration and professional development, we offer a supportive work culture that values innovation and accountability. As a Contracts and Supplier Performance Manager, you will have the unique opportunity to shape our contract management framework while contributing to the positive impact we make in students' lives.
Contact Details:
Truro & Penwith Academy Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts and Supplier Performance Manager
✨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 Truro & Penwith Academy Trust.
✨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 Contracts and Supplier Performance Manager
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 Truro & Penwith Academy Trust:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Truro & Penwith Academy Trust. 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 Truro & Penwith Academy Trust.
How to prepare for a job interview at Truro & Penwith Academy Trust
✨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 Truro & Penwith Academy Trust!
✨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 Truro & Penwith Academy Trust. 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 Truro & Penwith Academy Trust's culture.
