Supplier Relationship Manager

W Talent; Leicester Forest East; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A major UK organisation is seeking a Supplier Relationship Manager to manage key suppliers and enhance procurement strategies. The role involves developing supplier management strategies, increasing operational efficiency, and optimizing performance through collaborative engagement. Candidates should possess a strong background in supplier management and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders. This position offers competitive rewards and opportunities for career advancement in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

Career development opportunities

Competitive rewards

Qualifications

• Strong background in supplier management, procurement, or commercial operations.
• Proven ability to identify opportunities for improvement and influence decision-making.
• Confident in drafting and executing contracts and developing category strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement supplier management strategies aligned with business goals.
• Drive value creation through supplier engagement and negotiation.
• Manage supplier performance against KPIs and service standards.

Skills

Supplier management

Negotiation skills

Stakeholder management

Commercial mindset

Risk management

Job description

A major UK organisation experiencing sustained growth is seeking a Supplier Relationship Manager to join its expanding procurement function. This newly created position offers the chance to play a key role in developing supplier management strategies, optimising commercial performance, and enhancing business resilience across a diverse and fast‑paced environment.

This role is ideal for a commercially driven professional who enjoys working collaboratively across multiple business functions and influencing at senior levels. You'll be joining an organisation that values innovation, continuous improvement, and a culture that rewards initiative and accountability.

The Role

As Supplier Relationship Manager, you will take ownership of the performance and risk management of key suppliers while identifying opportunities to create value and deliver measurable benefits to the business. Working closely with Sourcing Managers and other stakeholders, you'll lead the creation and implementation of category strategies that balance cost efficiency, risk mitigation, and quality.

You will also help to strengthen supplier governance, develop best‑practice frameworks, and ensure that supplier performance and contract management are fully integrated within the wider procurement process. This role requires a proactive, flexible, and resilient individual who thrives in an environment where priorities can change quickly and collaboration is key to success.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement supplier and category management strategies aligned with business goals.
• Drive value creation through strategic supplier engagement and negotiation.
• Manage supplier performance, ensuring alignment with agreed KPIs and service standards.
• Identify and mitigate supply risks to safeguard operational continuity.
• Build strong relationships across internal teams to ensure procurement adds value across the organisation.
• Establish and maintain effective governance processes, improving compliance and efficiency.

About You

You will bring a strong background in supplier management, procurement, or commercial operations within a complex organisation. You have a proven ability to identify opportunities for improvement, lead negotiations, and influence decision‑making. A sound commercial mindset, excellent stakeholder management skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities are essential.

You will be confident in drafting and executing contracts, developing category strategies, and challenging both supplier models and internal specifications to achieve optimal results.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a progressive organisation offering career development, competitive rewards, and the chance to make a real impact in shaping its future supplier and procurement strategy.