Supply Chain Lead - Suppliers & Subcontractors

The Optimal Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus based on performance

Job summary

The Optimal Group is seeking a Supply Chain Manager – Suppliers & Subcontractors to build and manage a robust network of engineers, suppliers and subcontractors. You will proactively bring in new business, negotiate competitive terms, and ensure partners meet our standards for quality and service.

You will track performance, address issues, and develop strong relationships with Operations, Project Managers and Finance to support profitable growth.

Qualifications

• Experience managing suppliers or subcontractors in property maintenance or related sector.
• Proven track record sourcing and onboarding capable partners and managing ongoing performance.
• Confident making outbound calls, building relationships and negotiating commercial terms.
• Knowledge of trades, materials, labour requirements and pricing.
• Ability to assess suitability and recognise when specialist input is needed.
• Strong commercial judgement with understanding of margins and total cost.
• Confident handling difficult conversations and holding partners accountable.
• Strong organisation and reliable follow-through across multiple priorities.
• Excellent spoken and written English.
• Experience using CRM or job-management systems and performance data.
• Hands-on experience using ChatGPT or similar AI tools.

Responsibilities

• Source and attract better suppliers and subcontractors across trades and regions.
• Vet, onboard and activate new partners with checks and documentation.
• Negotiate prices, labour rates, discounts and terms within authority.
• Plan coverage and capacity with Operations to meet demand and avoid gaps.
• Manage performance with scorecards and address issues promptly.
• Build strong relationships with internal teams and partners.
• Maintain compliance and accurate supplier records.

Skills

Outbound calls

Relationship building

Negotiation

Commercial terms

English proficiency

Pricing knowledge

Deliver results

Tools

CRM systems

Spreadsheets

Performance data

ChatGPT / AI tools

Job description

The Optimal Group is seeking a Supply Chain Manager – Suppliers & Subcontractors to build and manage a robust network of engineers, suppliers and subcontractors. You will proactively bring in new business, negotiate competitive terms, and ensure partners meet our standards for quality and service.

You will track performance, address issues, and develop strong relationships with Operations, Project Managers and Finance to support profitable growth.