Vendor & Supplier Manager

SSE Enterprise; Reading; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy company located in the United Kingdom is seeking a Portfolio Vendor and Supplier Manager. In this role, you will oversee vendor relationships, set performance metrics, and ensure efficient delivery of value through suppliers. The ideal candidate will have experience in vendor management and Agile methodologies, as well as strong negotiation skills. This position offers a competitive salary with performance-related bonuses and flexible benefits.

Benefits

Flexible benefits

Discounts on private healthcare

Wellbeing benefits

Interest-free loans

Qualifications

• Experience in vendor/third-party management.
• Knowledge of contract practices and strategic supplier relationship management.
• Proven ability to represent business needs effectively.

Responsibilities

• Set and monitor performance metrics for suppliers.
• Develop strategic approach to vendor management.
• Collaborate with procurement for contract embedding.

Skills

Vendor management

Agile methodology

Contract negotiation

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Job description

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Base Location: Havant, Perth, Glasgow and Reading

Salary: £50,100 - £75,100 + performance-related bonus and a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.

Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | options available

The role

We are embedding agility in our ways of working, building capability for a digital SSE of the future, meeting the needs of our customers in a different way. SSE IT is building its Agile capability and continues to increase the proportion of its delivery which utilises Agile methodology and tools. As a result, those in Delivery and Portfolio Management roles need to have Agile experience and demonstrate an interest in championing it across the business.

The Portfolio Vendor and Supplier Manager role combines responsibility for ensuring the most effective and efficient delivery of value through suppliers and vendors. This includes setting and monitoring performance metrics, defining and setting expectations for quality and delivery standard alongside coordinating supplier and vendor needs across the TD&D IT, OT and Data Portfolio to ensure best value for TD&D change and service. Additionally this role works closely with procurement unit during commercial engagement to ensure fit for purpose contracted relationships for Both Agile and transitional delivery models. They sustain supplier and vendor relationships thoguhout the life time of the contract

You will

Develops and maintains a strategic approach to vendor and third-party management across the TD&D OT, IT, and Data portfolio to ensure alignment and avoid strategic lock-in.

Sets and monitors performance metrics for third-party services, collaborates with procurement to embed them in contracts, and drives remediation when standards aren't met.

Continuously reviews contracts and service delivery to maximize value, drive efficiencies, and respond to changing demand across the portfolio.

Provides regular performance reports to the TD&D Governance forum, including insights, recommendations, and progress on addressing grey IT and third-party issues.

Works with architecture, finance, and delivery leads to align vendor strategy, reduce unauthorized tech solutions, and share innovation opportunities.

You have

Experience in vendor/third-party management with knowledge of contract practices and strategic supplier relationship management.

Proven ability to represent business needs to vendors, influence senior stakeholders, and build strong, value-driven partnerships.

Familiarity with project delivery (especially Agile), service/change delivery processes, and improvement implementation.

Industry knowledge and understanding of internal directorates, stakeholders, technologies, and local processes are advantageous.

Strong negotiation, time management, and analytical skills, with a focus on driving value and continuous improvement in vendor strategies.

About SSE

SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're building the world's largest offshore wind farm. Transforming the grid to provide greener electricity for millions of people and investing over £20 billion in homegrown energy, with £20 billion more in the pipeline.

Our IT division powers growth across all SSE business areas by making sure we have the systems, software and security needed to take the lead in a low carbon world. They provide expertise, advice and day-to-day support in emerging technologies, data and analytics, cyber security and more.

Flexible benefits to fit your life

Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service. Interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.

Work with an equal opportunity employer

We're dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.

Ready to apply?

Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online. We'll be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we'll be taking your application further. If you're offered a role with SSE, you'll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.