7F Supplier Relationship Manager

Job title: 7F Supplier Relationship Manager
Grade: PO 4
Role code: E20619
Status: Police Staff

Main purpose of the role:

Develop and manage a portfolio of strategic supplier relationships on behalf of the 7 Forces with a view to seeking to secure better value for money from contractual arrangements. Lead where appropriate on all complex and commercial negotiations and disputes with the most strategic suppliers across the 7 Forces assigned to them, providing expert commercial and legal advice to the OPCCs and Chief Officer teams across the 7 Forces to enable them to deliver their Policing Plans. Explore new commercial opportunities to see if beneficial to the 7 Forces and OPCCs. Work with strategic partners eg Home Office, Blue Light Commercial and Crown Commercial Services to develop and implement new solutions.

Main responsibilities:

• Develop and manage the commercial relationship with a designated portfolio of strategic suppliers to ensure that the 7 Forces get value for money from those suppliers treating forces in the region as a single customer entity.
• Lead and/or support complex commercial negotiations with key suppliers, promoting innovation and ensuring best value is achieved, liaising and working with the relevant Category team members as required, as well as addressing and enforcing sanctions for poor performance, assisting in defending the relevant Force(s) from contractual claims.
• Produce and communicate relevant management information showing performance against commercial targets, and develop, where necessary, new systems to enable timely and accurate information on commercial activity and performance to be available to required stakeholders. Contribute to ethos of continuous improvement across all teams within Supplier Relationship Management.
• Actively monitor the comprehensive commercial risk register on the key strategic suppliers across the 7 Forces. This is to include monitoring financial market performance and horizon scanning across sectors and major suppliers which may impact any existing or future commercial relationships.
• Explore, identify and apply innovative commercial approaches for the delivery of critical complex projects whilst safeguarding the Forces contractual and commercial risks, encouraging innovation and alternative approaches across the team and the wider Forces.
• Ensure that all contracts and commercial arrangements are operated in accordance with relevant Public Contract Regulations 2015 embodying EU Procurement legislation and the Social Value Act 2012 and best practice, OPCC Regulations and obligations and are cost effective and to meet overarching force requirements.
• Contribute to the strategic and business planning processes for the 7 Forces by providing expert commercial advice and professional input across the end to end procurement life-cycle.
• Where directed, support the Category Management teams with tendering activity

Necessary experience:

Skills and abilities:

Strong analytical skills to align procurement solutions with customer needs.

Strong commercial acumen.

Be confident to explore and develop new commercial models not normally undertaken within the public sector E.G Teckal formation.

Ability to "see the big picture" and think strategically about developments across the public sector and emergency services sector and the potential opportunities that those developments will create for the 7 Forces.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Strong interpersonal skills with the gravitas and ability to liaise successfully with staff/officers of all levels and external individuals, and to influence stakeholders within the 7 Forces and external organisations.

Strong negotiating, influencing, interpersonal and communication skills, as are essential to the role.

Good organisational, time management and project management skills in order to ensure delivery of results to agreed deadlines.

Ability to travel as required throughout the UK.

Qualifications/Education/Training:

The post holder will hold MCIPS Level 6 in-line with the CIPS structure guidance or be able to clearly evidence equivalent levels of experience, technical knowledge and expertise by having worked as a commercially focused procurement professional for a complex, public sector organisation. (Essential).

Work Experience and Knowledge:

At least 5 years experience in category management (essential)

The post holder will be able to demonstrate significant experience of procurement and commercial management in contracts of significant value across a broad category range and worked as a commercially focused procurement professional for a complex public sector organisation. (Essential).

Extensive knowledge and understanding of contract law and the application of EU Public Procurement Regulations and legislation is essential, as well as preparing specifications and of preparing and evaluating tenders, including those operating under framework arrangements and EU directives. (Essential).

Proven success in working in a political environment with senior stakeholders (Chief Officer and Chief Executive level) showing sound judgment and impact. (Essential).

Provide innovative thinking and impetus to drive through change and develop and enhance an integrated commercial and contract management function across the seven forces. (Essential).

Significant experience of translating business needs into commercial procurement strategies that drive enhanced business outcomes for the organisations as a whole. (Essential).

Procurement experience with a blue light organisation (Desirable).

Behaviours:

Analyse critically (level 2)

I ensure that the best available evidence from a wide range of sources is taken into account when making decisions. I think about different perspectives and motivations when reviewing information and how this may influence key points. I ask incisive questions to test out facts and assumptions, questioning and challenging the information provided when necessary. I understand when to balance decisive action with due consideration. I recognise patterns, themes and connections between several and diverse sources of information and the best available evidence. I identify when I need to take action on the basis of limited information and think about how to mitigate the risks in doing so. I challenge others to ensure that decisions are made in alignment with our mission, values and the Code of Ethics.

Collaborative (level 2)

I manage relationships and partnerships for the long term, sharing information and building trust to find the best solutions. I help create joined-up solutions across organisational and geographical boundaries, partner organisations and those the police serve. I understand the local partnership context, helping me to use a range of tailored steps to build support. I work with our partners to decide who is best placed to take the lead on initiatives. I try to anticipate our partners' needs and take action to address these. I do not make assumptions. I check that our partners are getting what they need from the police service. I build commitment from others (including the public) to work together to deliver agreed outcomes.

Deliver, support and inspire (level 2)

I give clear direction and expectations, helping others to understand how their work operates in the wider context. I identify barriers that inhibit performance in my teams and take steps to resolve these, enabling others to perform. I lead the public and / or colleagues, where appropriate, during incidents or through the provision of advice and support. I ensure the efficient use of resources to create the most value and the right impact within my areas. I keep track of changes in the external environment, anticipating both the short and long term potential implications for the Police Service. I motivate and inspire others to achieve their best.

Emotionally aware (level 2)

I consider the perspectives of people from a wide range of backgrounds before taking action. I adapt my style and approach according to the needs of the people I am working with, using my own behaviour to achieve the best outcome. I promote a culture that values diversity and encourages challenge. I encourage reflective practice among others and take the time to support others to understand reactions and behaviours. I take responsibility for helping to ensuring the emotional well being of those in my teams. I take the responsibility to deal with any inappropriate behaviours.

Innovative and open-minded (level 2)

I explore a number of different sources of information and use a variety of tools when faced with a problem and look for good practice that is not always from policing. I am able to spot opportunities or threats which may influence how I go about my job in the future by using knowledge of trends, new thinking about policing and changing demographics in the population. I am flexible in my approach, changing my plans to make sure that I have the best impact. I encourage others to be creative and take appropriate risks. I share my explorations and understanding of the wider internal and external environment.

Take ownership (level 2)

I proactively create a culture of ownership within my areas of work and support others to display personal responsibility. I take responsibility for making improvements to policies, processes and procedures, actively encouraging others to contribute their ideas. I am accountable for the decisions my team make and the activities within our teams. I take personal responsibility for seeing events through to a satisfactory conclusion and for correcting any problems both promptly and openly. I actively encourage and support learning within my teams and colleagues.

Values:

Impartiality (accredited)

I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.

Integrity (accredited)

I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.

Public service (accredited)

I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.

Transparency (accredited)

I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.

Technical skills:

Budget Management (Level 4)

Accountable for and capable of managing a set budget. Fully conversant with financial regulations, processes and procedures and the responsibilities placed upon the budget holder. Capable of and responsible for authorising expenditure from a local budget and aware of the implications of certain courses of action. Can make budgetary decisions having given due consideration to best value.

Business Planning (Level 4)

Gathers relevant information and statistics to support the business planning process at Division/Department level. Identifies key objectives in order to improve local performance and ensures these are aligned with the Force Strategic Aims. Effectively communicates agreed objectives and targets to the local workforce. Plans for and ensures the best use of resources and value for money.

Customer Services (Level 4)

Able to identify and interpret more complex problems affecting customers. Suggests improvements in customer services and generates solutions on behalf of customers, taking the necessary action to deliver these solutions. Regularly provides enhanced and high level customer service. Demonstrates the ability to select information for communication to customers and improve the flow of information between the organisation and customers. Actively seeks opportunities for improving working relationships.

Health and Safety (Level 4)

Has received Supervisor training and takes responsibility for the safety of directly subordinate staff and visitors. Understands the procedures in place for the safe storage of hazardous substances, fire precautions and evacuation. Resolves hazards or problems identified within roles or work environments. Undertakes skills passport assessments for new and existing staff. Re-assesses passport as and when new equipment /technology is introduced.Completes annual reviews of skills passports, training needs analysis.

Information Gathering and Analysis (Level 5)

Information gathered is sufficient, valid and reliable and is consistent with the organisation's values, policies, guidelines and procedures. Able to deal with situations when information is insufficient, contradictory or ambiguous. Able to organise and interpret information so that conclusions can be drawn.

Internal Consultancy (Level 5)

Provides expert consultancy support, advice and guidance to senior managers in Departments and Areas. Understands and agrees client requirements. Agrees the level of service required after exploring all relevant options and consequences to ensure best value. Utilises appropriate techniques to gather and analyse specific, high quality data. Possesses the ability to influence others and gain commitment to action. Able to provide a seamless consultancy service.

Interviewing - General (Level 4)

Has received some training in reliable interviewing techniques and is able to apply these techniques fairly, consistently and to good effect. Identifies the key issues for examination and tests these using open and probing questions. Identifies weaknesses and inconsistencies in the account and seeks clarification. Keeps good written records of the interview for future

Knowledge of Police Environment and Policy (Level 5)

Has a thorough understanding of the police service, nationally and locally, and is proactive in developing proposals which affect the way Kent Police and/or Essex Police operates. Possesses a detailed understanding of the inter-relationships between activities, roles, functions, and how organisation structures and police systems work. Understands and impacts on working procedures, practices and policies within areas of responsibility and ensures that these are followed at all times. Contributes to Force goals and is laccountable for delivering local business plan objectives.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) (Level 5)

Has sufficient understanding of the NPCC records management policies be able to offer appropriate guidance and support to staff. Is able to identify the appropriate MOPI group for any record with a policing purpose and ensure that all policing records within the team are retained, reviewed or destroyed in line with the MOPI codes of practice. Quality assures staff to ensure a full understanding and compliance with the APP for information Management (incorporating MOPI guidance), highlighting failings and taking appropriate action as required. Ensures training and/or refresher training is provided and completed. Ensures that systems are correctly linked together to ensure effective management and recording of information across systems. Appropriately reviews digital information held on system(s) and physical records in storage to ensure that they are retained only where there is a policing purpose. Complies with relevant policies and procedures in respect of prioritisation, sanitisation, dissemination, sharing relevancy, accuracy, adequacy and timeliness.

Office Technology (Level 4)

Demonstrates advanced skills in the use of one or more office software products Able to use these packages to enhance the quality or presentation of work required within the role. Manages data files and file structures. Provides on the job training and guidance to other staff in the use of specific or specialist software, if required. Familiar with established IT rules and protocols and shows a good understanding of data protection requirements.

Procurement - Contracting (Level 6)

Strategically identifies and ensures the provision of the Force's requirements for goods and services, seeking and exploiting new opportunities to develop the direction of the Procurement function as an integral part of all Force business operations. Represents the Force at national level to negotiate and obtain Best Value in partnership with other Forces.

Procurement - Purchasing (Level 6)

Expert in the evaluation of organisational and commercial issues impacting upon business procurement requirements. Determines the competitiveness of suppliers and identifies and exploits beneficial developments in the pursuit of Best Value on behalf of the Force. Promotes the theory of cost v. Price in demonstrating best value for the Force.

Procurement - Supplies (Level 5)

Develops, monitors and evaluates policies and plans for operations affecting the storage and retrieval of goods. Coordinates and supervises the storage and provision of goods across the county.

Risk Management (Level 5)

Able to anticipate, accurately define and establish the relative level of risk likely to affect their specialist function, in terms of likelihood and impact, together with how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their role within the force. Assesses the risks of national initiatives providing feedback at the relevant level. Has an understanding of pathways to alert all appropriate senior managers to flawed or ineffective control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.