Supplier Relationship Managers procure IT products and services on behalf of the IT function and the wider business, using their networks and negotiation skills to achieve best value and service levels.
The scope of the role varies from organization to organization, and can include everything from sourcing suppliers, to negotiating contracts, managing delivery and acting as a conduit between the business and the supplier when there are performance issues. As well as managing supplier relationships, Supplier Relationship Managers in larger organizations are likely to be responsible for establishing or contributing to the framework of procurement policies and processes that govern management of supplier relationships, and at more senior levels may manage a team of people with supplier management responsibilities.
The trend for outsourcing means that increasingly organizations are looking to their suppliers for innovation, security of supply and cost savings, and at the heart of modern supplier management is the concept that customers share responsibility for building relationships. Supplier Relationship Managers need to be able to forge strong, mutually beneficial relationships between key suppliers and the internal IT teams and business customers.
Typical Tasks
- Work with the business to identify requirements and opportunities for cost savings
- Supplier identification and competitive analysis
- Contract negotiation and placement
- Proactively manage relationships with key suppliers.
Potential Next Steps
IT Operations Manager, Business Relationship Manager, Chief Information Officer.
How to get there
AXELOS professional certifications are recognized worldwide by employers as an indicator of your skills and commitment as an ITSM professional.
The following certifications are aimed at practising Supplier Relationship Manager and will support your development into more senior ITSM roles:
