Contract & Supplier Relationship Manager

Overview

In this role you will oversee a portfolio of strategic contracts and supplier relationships within a dynamic local government procurement function. You’ll drive value, performance and continuous improvement across key service areas such as HR, IT, Finance, Fleet, FM and Consultancy. You will work with internal stakeholders and senior leadership to implement governance, monitor performance and shape contract strategies. The opportunity combines high-impact procurement work with flexible working and a supportive public sector environment.

Pay / Benefits

• 30 days annual leave + Bank Holidays
• volunteering package
• LGPS pension scheme
• working from home 4 days per week
• office presence in Chichester 1 day per week
• generous public sector package

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of strategic contracts, ensuring obligations and expected outcomes are met
• Lead supplier relationship management activities to drive performance and value creation
• Develop and implement contract management strategies to optimise cost, quality, delivery and supplier effectiveness
• Establish and monitor contract governance, performance measures and reporting frameworks
• Identify, assess and mitigate contractual, commercial and operational risks
• Manage contractual changes with control, compliance and alignment to business objectives
• Develop business cases to support renewals, re-procurement and service transformation
• Provide performance insights and recommendations to senior stakeholders within governance and audit frameworks

Key requirements

• Experience in Contract Management, Supplier Relationship Management, Commercial Management or related post-award roles
• Proven track record managing complex, high-value contracts and supplier relationships
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills and ability to influence at multiple levels
• Experience delivering supplier performance improvement initiatives and managing strategic relationships
• Experience in risk management, governance, change management and contract compliance
• Commercially astute with strong negotiation and influencing skills
• MCIPS qualified or working towards MCIPS (advantageous)

• Stakeholder engagement
• Influencing and collaboration
• Analytical thinking
• Contract management
• Supplier relationship management
• Governance frameworks

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