Vendor Manager

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Talent Acquisition Manager at TalkTalk Business | Ex-PZ Cussons, Ex-NCC Group

About Us

For over 25 years, we've been supporting UK businesses of all sizes, providing exceptional connectivity, competitive pricing, and outstanding service. While we take pride in our legacy, our focus is firmly on the future with a fibre-first, future-ready approach.

Our ultra-reliable network is trusted by more than 1 in 10 businesses, and our comprehensive range of innovative solutions are designed to help any business achieve its full potential.

If you are looking to be part of an ambitious team that is constantly evolving and empowered to deliver excellence, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and help us shape the future of business connectivity.

The Role

Reporting into the Chief Finance Officer (CFO), we are seeking an experienced Vendor Manager to play a key role in optimising supplier relationships and procurement processes during our transition to a standalone business. The Vendor Manager will be responsible for developing and maintaining strong relationships with strategic vendors, overseeing the procurement of goods and services, managing contract lifecycles, and driving cost optimisation while ensuring the availability of quality goods and services to support organisational operations.

This role requires a combination of relationship management, commercial acumen, and strategic thinking to achieve optimal value, mitigate risks, and foster continuous improvement in vendor partnerships.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities for the role include, but are not limited to:

• Strategic Vendor Management: Build and manage relationships with strategic vendors, ensuring alignment with business goals, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Procurement Process Oversight: Oversee procurement from requisition to purchase order, ensuring timely delivery, supplier selection, contract negotiations, and proper documentation.
• Contract Management & Negotiations: Lead complex contract negotiations, manage the full contract lifecycle, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance and alignment with business needs.
• Financial Management: Manage vendor budgets, track spending, analyse pricing proposals, and lead cost-saving initiatives while maintaining service quality.
• Risk & Compliance Management: Monitor and mitigate vendor-related risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and develop contingency plans to maintain service continuity.
• Process Improvement & Reporting: Optimise procurement and vendor management processes, create performance dashboards, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills and experience we are looking for

• Proven track record of success working in the same or similar positions, such as Direct/Indirect Procurement Manager, Supplier Manager, Supplier Relationship Manager etc.
• Exceptional negotiation and influence skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Strong business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities, with an ability to align vendor strategies with organisational goals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of engaging stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, with a focus on optimising vendor performance and managing risk.
• Leadership and stakeholder management expertise, with a track record of driving cross-functional collaboration.

How you will work

At TalkTalk Business we understand the importance of flexibility and connection in the workplace. That’s why we have adopted a hybrid approach to working. Our aim is for our full time team to spend 3 days a week at our HQ in Soapworks, Salford Quays with the remaining days offering the option to work from home. We want to ensure you enjoy the collaboration and connection of the office environment, combined with the convenience of remote working.

What can we offer you?

• Competitive Salary and Bonus Scheme: Earn a rewarding salary with a bonus scheme designed to recognise your hard work and dedication.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Support your wellbeing, achieve a work-life balance, and plan for the future with our all-inclusive benefits.
• Free TalkTalk Broadband: Enjoy complimentary TalkTalk broadband as an added perk for all employees.
• Personal and Professional Growth: Take advantage of opportunities for career advancement and personal development.
• Additional Perks: Participate in exciting company events, take advantage of volunteering days, and enjoy electric car charging points available at our HQ.

Be #ACE!

Be Ambitious, Be Connected, Be Empowered.

We embrace challenge, create resilient relationships and nurture our collaborative culture, while building a positive and rewarding environment where everyone takes pride in the part they play.

We will take reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure all candidates have a fair recruitment process to eliminate stereotypes, unconscious bias or prejudice.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Purchasing, Supply Chain, and Other
• Telecommunications

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