Post Title:
Supply Chain Manager
Contract Type:
Permanent
Workplace:
EFL House, Preston
Reporting to:
Head of Business Operations and Internal Risk
Working Pattern:
M-F, 35 hours
"The EFL is about two things – great football competitions and supporting communities 365 days a year".
The EFL is looking for a strategic
Supply Chain Manager
to work within our Business Operations Team. The role will focus on creation and implementation of a centralised policy around the EFL's procurement processes, including working alongside suppliers, ensuring correct governance and best-practice as well as training and liaising with departments on how they procure good and services.
The ideal candidate will have experience within a relevant supply chain/logistics role, may be SIPS qualified and specifically have practical knowledge and competency of procuring services and systems.
JOB PURPOSE
We are seeking a highly organised and strategic Supply Chain Manager, with a systems background to oversee our purchasing operations.
The Supply Chain Manager will be responsible for sourcing suppliers, undertaking tender processes, managing procurement processes, and ensuring cost-effective purchasing aligned with company objectives and cost budgets. They will lead and develop all of the EFL's procurement policies and processes, ensuring best value and timely supply across an array of areas within the business.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
STRATEGIC SOURCING AND SUPPLIER MANAGEMENT
* Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with business goals
* Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on quality, cost, and reliability
* Build and maintain strong supplier relationships
* Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing
COST CONTROL AND BUDGET MANAGEMENT
* Monitor procurement budgets and ensure cost-effectiveness
* Analyse spending patterns and identify cost-saving opportunities
* Prepare reports on procurement performance and cost analysis
COMPLIANCE, RISK MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
* Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations
* Ensure the EFL's supply chain is environmentally sustainable, and all suppliers follow the EFL's sustainability policies
* Manage procurement risks, including supplier risks and contract risks
* Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation
LEADERSHIP AND COLLABORATION
* Collaborate with other departments (e.g., finance, operations, legal) to align procurement with organisational needs
* Provide training and support to employees on procurement policies and systems
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT AND INNOVATION
* Evaluate and improve procurement processes and systems
* Stay updated on market trends and innovations in procurement practices
* Implement sustainable and ethical sourcing practices
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR
KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING
* Recognised qualification in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, related field or equivalent working knowledge
* Demonstrable competency within procurement or supply chain management – preferably in a systems role
* Understands how to develop, implement and continually improve a companywide procurement policy
* Understands how to influence others and spot opportunities to improve how we work collectively
* Knowledge of the football or sport industry from a procurement perspective would be advantageous though not essential
* Setting up supply chain management processes and efficiency
* Knowledge of negotiation and service systems, exit clauses, RPI increase clauses
TECHNICAL SKILLS
* Strong negotiation and contract management skills
* Proficiency in all Microsoft applications, particularly Microsoft 365
* Excellent analytical, communication, and leadership skills
* Ability to train and develop others on systems, process and best practice
* Great interpersonal skills – able to get to buy in and understanding from senior employees and stakeholders
* Strong reporting and presentation skills
ATTRIBUTES
* High level of self-motivation, initiative and commitment to achieve ambitious objectives as part of a team
* Pro-active and driven – always wants to improve
* A strategic thinker who can align our supply chain with business objectives
* Strong attention to detail
* Highly organised
* Lead by example by contributing to promoting the principles of the EFL:
* Everybody Working Together
- We are one team supporting each other and collaborating on our shared goals
* Fairness & Equality
* Being consistent and inclusive for everyone - showing respect
* Listening & Learning
- Communicating with trust and honesty - growing as individuals and enabling others to do so too
INTRODUCTION TO THE EFL
The English Football League (EFL) is the highest attended football league, and largest single body of professional clubs in Europe.
It is responsible for administering and regulating the Sky Bet EFL, Sky Bet Play-Offs, Carabao Cup and Vertu Trophy competitions, plus youth and reserve team football.
A vital part of sporting life, both in the UK and across the globe, the EFL operates some of the world's most competitive, popular and successful football competitions, acting as part of the fabric of life for millions of fans and families.
EFL Clubs are truly embedded in the hearts of their 72 local communities, spanning the breadth and depth of England and Wales. Away from the match-day, Clubs and Club Community Organisations interact seven days a week, 365 days a year, making a positive contribution to the communities in which they serve.
EFL GROWTH AND THE BUSINESS OPERATIONS TEAM
The Business Operations team is focussed on providing support, services and equipment to enable EFL employees, the Board and the wider business to function efficiently and effectively for the benefit of our member Clubs.
In recent seasons, the EFL has significantly developed and diversified its operations. Successful implementation of a new commercial strategy has delivered record revenues across the organisation. This includes a ground-breaking domestic broadcast agreement with Sky Sports, a new Americas focused broadcast and marketing partnership with Relevent Sports, and the implementation of the EFL's 'Clubs and Communities' partnership model.
Our current commercial cycle represents an exciting opportunity for continued activation and growth.
OUR TEAM AT THE EFL
The EFL offers a unique opportunity to work with some of the biggest sporting competitions, clubs, commercial partnerships and media in the market. We look for the best people who approach their work with energy, excellence and commitment.
Our employees are crucial to our success and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are fundamental elements of building our team. Each of us has an array of qualifications, skills and life experiences.
If you have any particular requirements in respect of the recruitment or interview process, please mention this in your application.
The EFL reserves the right to close this vacancy early should we receive enough applications.