At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic supplier relationships and engage with senior stakeholders in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a central government initiative shaping technology partnerships.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and the chance to influence major decisions.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with global tech providers and drive innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on technology strategy and supplier engagement in government.
- Qualifications: Strong background in supplier management and excellent communication skills.
Rate: £700-£750 per day (Inside IR35)
Duration: 6 months
Clearance: Active SC (or recently lapsed and transferable)
Location: London preferred (Manchester considered with regular London travel)
Working Pattern: Hybrid - typically 2-3 days onsite (flexibility required)
Overview
We are recruiting for two senior Head of Supplier Management roles supporting strategic supplier engagement across a large-scale, complex digital and technology landscape within central government. These are highly visible, relationship-led positions, operating at the intersection of major technology suppliers, senior government stakeholders, and commercial teams. You will play a key role in shaping supplier strategy, influencing senior decision-makers, and driving how organisations engage with strategic partners across the digital ecosystem.
Role Focus Areas
- Strategic Technology & Supplier Relationships: Managing and developing relationships with global technology providers and strategic suppliers, supporting engagement models, governance, and long-term partnership strategy.
- SME & Emerging Technology Ecosystem: Driving engagement with SMEs, scale-ups, and emerging technology organisations, supporting the development of a diverse and innovative supplier base.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage strategic supplier relationships across industry and government.
- Engage with senior stakeholders, including commercial functions and leadership teams.
- Support supplier strategy, governance, and engagement frameworks.
- Translate complex commercial and strategic information into clear communications and briefings.
- Navigate highly complex stakeholder environments with confidence and professionalism.
- Contribute to the development of long-term, strategic partnerships.
- Operate flexibly within a fast-paced and evolving environment.
Experience Required
- Strong background in supplier management, strategic partnerships, or relationship management.
- Experience working with senior stakeholders across public and/or private sectors.
- Demonstrable commercial awareness and strategic thinking.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills.
- Politically astute, with the ability to navigate complex organisational environments.
- Proven ability to build credibility and trust with senior leaders and external partners.
- Adaptable, proactive, and comfortable working with ambiguous or evolving processes.
Head of Supplier Relationship Management employer: TXP Technology x People
As a leading employer in the public sector, we offer an exceptional work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our hybrid working model provides flexibility, allowing you to balance your professional and personal life while engaging with senior stakeholders and global technology providers. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, we empower our team members to shape strategic supplier relationships and drive impactful change within the digital landscape of central government.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Supplier Relationship Management
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its suppliers thoroughly. Understand their challenges and think about how you can contribute to their supplier strategy. This will help you stand out as someone who’s genuinely interested and knowledgeable.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your relationship-building skills! In interviews, share specific examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships or influenced senior stakeholders. This is your chance to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for a role that’s all about connections.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Supplier Relationship Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Supplier Relationship Management. Highlight your experience with strategic partnerships and supplier management, and don’t forget to mention any relevant government or technology sector experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Talk about your experience with senior stakeholders and how you've successfully navigated complex environments in the past.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves influencing senior decision-makers, make sure your application reflects your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language, and consider including examples of how you've effectively communicated complex information in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at TXP Technology x People
✨Know Your Suppliers
Before the interview, research the key suppliers and technology providers relevant to the role. Understand their strengths, weaknesses, and how they fit into the broader digital ecosystem. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your strategic thinking and ability to manage relationships effectively.
✨Master Stakeholder Engagement
Prepare to discuss your experience with senior stakeholders in both public and private sectors. Think of specific examples where you've successfully navigated complex environments and influenced decision-makers. This will showcase your political astuteness and communication skills.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
Be ready to articulate your vision for supplier strategy and governance. Consider how you would approach building long-term partnerships and engaging with SMEs and emerging tech organisations. This will highlight your proactive mindset and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice translating complex commercial information into clear, concise communications. During the interview, focus on being articulate and confident in your responses. This will not only reflect your excellent communication skills but also your ability to build credibility with senior leaders.
