Strategic Sourcing Manager
Guildford (Hybrid, with UK & occasional international travel)
This role sits at the heart of how we manage suppliers, control spend, and drive value across our UK Supply Chain. You’ll take ownership of key categories, shaping sourcing strategies that support both commercial performance and operational delivery across Aramark and Avendra International.
You’ll lead end‑to‑end sourcing activity — from strategy and supplier selection through to negotiation, contracting, and performance management — ensuring we deliver value, consistency, and innovation across the business.
This role suits someone who is commercially minded, structured in their approach, and confident working with stakeholders and suppliers at all levels. If you enjoy owning categories, influencing decisions, and improving how procurement delivers impact, this role offers strong scope and visibility.
✅ What you’ll be doing
- Own and deliver category strategies aligned to business objectives and operational needs
- Lead sourcing activity across assigned categories, including RFI/RFP, negotiation, and contracting
- Manage supplier relationships, performance, and ongoing commercial agreements
- Analyse category spend and identify cost-saving and value improvement opportunities
- Ensure compliance with procurement policies, governance, and best practice
- Partner with logistics and operational teams to align sourcing with supply chain priorities
- Support product and category development initiatives, including trials and approvals
- Drive supplier onboarding, due diligence, and contract implementation
- Contribute to sustainability and ethical sourcing objectives across your categories
What we’re looking for
- Proven experience in sourcing, procurement, or category management (minimum 3+ years)
- Background within foodservice, retail, or a related supply chain environment
- Strong commercial negotiation and contract management capability
- Experience managing supplier relationships and performance
- Confident working with stakeholders across functions and levels
⭐ Nice to have
- CIPS qualification or working towards it
- Experience supporting sustainability or responsible sourcing initiatives
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