Contracts and Supplier Performance Manager

Truro and Penwith Academy Trust is a supportive and collaborative organisation with one primary focus: the improvement of teaching and learning within Cornwall. We are dedicated to making a positive impact on our students' lives and shaping a brighter future. To support our growing operations, we are seeking a commercial professional to oversee our Trust-wide contract portfolio.

The Role

As the Contracts and Supplier Performance Manager, you will take on a vital, Trust-wide post-award contract management and supplier performance role. Operating under the strategic direction of the Director of Operations, you will ensure our contracts deliver their intended outcomes, robust financial assurance, and maximum value for money.

You will establish consistent contract management standards, strengthen supplier accountability, manage risk, and provide operational leaders with actionable performance insights.

Key Responsibilities:

Framework & Oversight: Develop, implement, and maintain a Trust-wide contract management framework and centralised contract register.

Performance Monitoring: Lead contract performance monitoring by interrogating KPI, SLA, invoice, and service delivery data.

Risk & Compliance: Identify, quantify, and mitigate contractual, financial, and operational risks, ensuring strict compliance with public sector governance.

Procurement Interface: Work closely with the Procurement Lead to manage mobilisations, variations, renewals, and exit planning.

Relationship Management: Build professional, constructive supplier relationships while maintaining robust commercial challenge and accountability.

Who We Are Looking For:

Education: Degree-level qualification in a relevant commercial, legal, or analytical field (or equivalent experience). Professional qualifications like CIPS or WorldCC are highly desirable.

Experience: Proven track record in post-award contract management, supplier performance monitoring, and handling complex service contracts.

Skills: Strong financial awareness, data analysis skills, and proficiency in Microsoft 365 (particularly Excel). You must be a clear, concise communicator capable of translating complex contract data for senior leaders.

Mobility: A full clean driving licence and access to transport to travel efficiently across Trust sites.

Values: A deep commitment to safeguarding, equal opportunities, and the welfare of children and young people.

Why Join Us?

This is an exceptional opportunity to shape and transform a centralised contract management function from the ground up. You will work within a professional, solutions-focused team where your expertise directly supports the operational resilience and success of our academies.