Interim Contract & Supplier Manager

About the role

A major utilities organisation in Worthing is looking for an experienced Interim Contract & Supplier Manager to take ownership of a broad portfolio of operationally critical supplier relationships. The portfolio covers FM, Fleet, Meter Readings, Smart Meters, Professional Services, Consultancy and Debt Collection. The assignment lasts 3-6 months, starts ASAP and is hybrid, with 2-3 days per week in Worthing.

Key responsibilities

• Take ownership of key supplier relationships, driving accountability, service delivery and contractual compliance
• Protect and maximise contract value through spend management, pricing controls, rebates and discounts
• Resolve contractual issues, negotiate variations and manage commercial terms
• Manage contract lifecycles, including renewals, extensions and supplier exits
• Identify and mitigate commercial, contractual and operational supplier risks
• Partner with operational teams and senior stakeholders to resolve challenges

Required profile

• Proven experience in Contract Management, Supplier Relationship Management or Commercial Management, ideally across services categories
• Strong commercial awareness, negotiation capability and experience managing supplier performance
• Confidence challenging suppliers, resolving contractual issues and influencing stakeholders
• Ability to manage a varied portfolio, prioritise competing demands and deliver at pace
• Experience in Utilities, Infrastructure, Public Sector or other complex, regulated environments is advantageous
• CIPS or WorldCC qualifications are beneficial
• Current and valid UK right to work