Vendor Relations Manager in Manchester – Immediate Start & Flexible Roles
Staffing Service is recruiting for an experienced Vendor Relations Manager for a key client in the M18 postcode and across Greater Manchester. This is an immediate temporary-to-permanent opportunity offering competitive pay, a dynamic work environment, and a clear path to career progression for the right candidate.
Vendor Relations Manager Job Description
Our client, a leading service provider in the North West with a major operational hub in Manchester (M18), is seeking a proactive and strategic Vendor Relations Manager to join their procurement and supply chain team. This is a pivotal role focused on building and maintaining strong, productive partnerships with key suppliers and service providers. You will be the primary point of contact, ensuring vendor performance meets stringent SLAs, driving cost efficiencies, and mitigating supply chain risks within a fast-paced environment.
By applying through Staffing Service, you gain access to our extensive network of top employers in Manchester and beyond. We don't just fill roles; we match skilled professionals like Vendor Relations Managers with businesses where they can make a tangible impact. Our process is streamlined for speed – we connect you with hiring managers directly, handle the initial screening, and support you from application to offer, much like our successful placements for roles such as Event Cleaners in Cambridge (CB6) or Dinner Lady in Exeter (EX18).
Key Responsibilities & Duties
As the Vendor Relations Manager, you will be entrusted with a portfolio of strategic suppliers. Your day-to-day will be varied, challenging, and central to operational success.
- Strategic Partnership Management: Serve as the main liaison for a portfolio of key vendors, conducting regular performance reviews (QBRs), and developing joint business plans to drive mutual growth and value.
- Performance & SLA Oversight: Monitor, analyse, and report on vendor performance against agreed Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Implement corrective action plans where necessary to ensure continuous improvement.
- Contract Negotiation & Cost Management: Support the procurement team in negotiating contract renewals, pricing agreements, and terms & conditions. Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or service delivery.
- Risk Mitigation & Compliance: Proactively assess and mitigate risks within the supply chain. Ensure all vendors comply with relevant legal, regulatory, and company policies, including health & safety and ethical sourcing standards.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with internal stakeholders across operations, finance, and project management to align vendor activities with business objectives, ensuring seamless integration and communication.
- Issue Resolution & Relationship Building: Act as an effective escalation point for any vendor-related issues, resolving conflicts promptly and professionally to maintain strong, positive working relationships.
What We're Looking For (Requirements)
The ideal candidate will be a commercially astute relationship manager with a proven track record in a similar role. You must be based in or around Manchester and ready to start at short notice.
- Proven Experience: Minimum of 3 years' experience in a vendor management, supplier relationship, or strategic procurement role, preferably within logistics, retail, FM, or a similar fast-paced sector.
- Negotiation & Analytical Skills: Demonstrated ability in contract negotiation, financial analysis, and using data to drive decision-making and improve vendor performance.
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build rapport, influence at all levels, and manage difficult conversations with diplomacy.
- Organisational Proficiency: Strong project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple vendor accounts and priorities simultaneously in a deadline-driven environment.
- Technical Knowledge: Proficiency with MS Office Suite (especially Excel) and experience with procurement or vendor management software is highly desirable.
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Salary, Benefits & Why This Role
This Vendor Relations Manager position offers more than just a competitive salary; it's a gateway to career-defining experience with a reputable organisation.
Compensation & Perks
- Pro-rata annual salary of £35,000 - £45,000 (dependent on experience).
- Weekly pay processed reliably through Staffing Service.
- Potential for a permanent contract after a successful temporary period.
- On-site parking and excellent public transport links (M18 area).
Career Development
- Gain invaluable experience with a high-profile supply chain operation.
- Opportunity to shape and optimise a critical vendor portfolio.
- Develop skills that are in high demand across multiple industries in Manchester and the UK.
- Access to exclusive training resources via our candidate development guides.
Why Register with Staffing Service in Manchester?
As a leading recruitment and temporary staffing agency in the North West, Staffing Service is your dedicated partner for finding not just a job, but the right career move. We specialise in connecting talented professionals with top employers across Manchester, from the bustling M18 industrial estates to the city centre. When you work with us, you benefit from our local expertise and national network.
- Local Market Mastery: We have deep-rooted connections with Manchester's key businesses, giving you access to unadvertised roles and immediate opportunities like this Vendor Relations Manager position.
- Streamlined Process: Our registration is quick, and our consultants work efficiently to match your skills, much like we do for roles such as Evening Part Time Receptionist in Oldham (OL14).
- Career Support: From CV advice to interview preparation, we provide end-to-end support. Explore our insights on strategic hiring to understand what employers are looking for.
- Flexible & Permanent Roles: Whether you seek a temp-to-perm path like this one, or other flexible shifts, we cater to your career goals.
How to Apply for This Vendor Relations Manager Role
Ready to take the next step in your procurement and supply chain career? Applying for this immediate-start role in Manchester is straightforward.
Application Process
- Click 'Apply Now': Submit your initial application via our secure portal. This alerts your dedicated Manchester consultant.
- Consultant Call: We'll contact you within 24 hours (often sooner) to discuss your experience, this role, and your career aspirations in detail.
- Rapid Submission: If suitable, we will prepare your application and submit you directly to the hiring client, advocating on your behalf.
- Interview Coordination: We manage all interview logistics, provide thorough briefings, and offer feedback at every stage.
- Offer & Onboarding: Upon success, we guide you through the offer, contract, and smooth onboarding process for a seamless start.
If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected] or call us on +442071239330.
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This Vendor Relations Manager role is interviewing now. Submit your details for immediate consideration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The client is seeking candidates with a minimum of 3 years' demonstrable experience in a vendor management, supplier relationship, or strategic procurement role. Experience within logistics, facilities management, retail, or a similar fast-paced B2B environment is highly advantageous. Essential skills include contract management, performance analysis, negotiation, and stakeholder communication. For more on what employers look for, see our guide on candidate screening strategies.
This is primarily an on-site role based at the client's operational headquarters in the M18 area of Manchester. Some hybrid flexibility may be possible once established, but the initial period requires full-time presence to build relationships with internal teams and conduct site visits with vendors.
This is an immediate start requirement. The client is looking to onboard the successful candidate within 1-2 weeks of offer. Our registration and vetting process at Staffing Service is designed for speed, allowing us to fast-track suitable candidates. We can often complete compliance checks within 48 hours for urgent roles.
You will initially be employed by Staffing Service on a temporary contract, typically for a probationary period of 3-6 months. During this time, you will work directly at the client's site. If both you and the client are satisfied with the working relationship, they will offer you a permanent employment contract directly with their company. This is a common and low-risk way for both parties to ensure a good fit.
Absolutely. We specialise in a wide range of professional, commercial, and industrial recruitment across Manchester and the North West. From procurement and supply chain roles like this one, to office management, accountancy, and HR positions. We also fill high-volume roles in logistics, retail, and hospitality. Explore our latest jobs board or speak to a consultant about your specific skills.
Ready to Manage Key Vendor Relationships in Manchester?
Don't miss this immediate-start opportunity to advance your career with a leading employer. Apply now and a dedicated consultant will be in touch within 24 hours.
If you are interested email your cv and info to [email protected]
Staffing Service – Manchester
Your local recruitment partner for Vendor Relations Manager roles and professional staffing solutions across Greater Manchester. Whether you're seeking temporary work, flexible shifts, or a permanent career move, we connect talent with opportunity.
We also support employers with strategic hiring. Learn more about our comprehensive HR solutions.
Staffing Service is an equal-opportunities employment agency and recruitment business. Registered in England. All vacancies are open to applicants regardless of background.