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.

Supply Chain Manager

Job Type