Purchasing Manager

At Sofitel London St James, we redefine luxury by treating a stay as more than just a temporary pause—it's an opportunity for guests to fall in love with a unique blend of refined luxury and playful indulgence. Our commitment to excellence transcends the ordinary, and we invite you to join a team that specialises in transforming stays into enchanting tales. We take immense pride in creating a playfully elegant and meaningful experience for both our guests and ourselves. Our commitment to fostering a workplace culture that values diversity, encourages professional growth, and recognises individual contributions ensures that each team member feels appreciated and empowered in their role. Apply now to embark on a career that transcends expectations and celebrates the art of hospitality.

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for managing the hotel’s procurement process, ensuring the timely and cost-effective purchase of goods and services needed for the operation of the hotel. This includes working closely with various departments to forecast needs, sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and maintaining proper inventory levels to meet operational requirements. The Purchasing Manager ensures that all purchased goods meet the hotel's quality standards, sustainability requirements and compliance regulations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Procurement & Sourcing

• Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers for a wide variety of goods and services, including food & beverage, linens, toiletries, cleaning products, maintenance supplies, etc.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure reliable, high-quality, and cost-effective purchasing.
• Review market trends, pricing, and new products to ensure the hotel is getting competitive pricing and high-quality products.
• Maintain and update accurate records of all purchase orders, invoices, and delivery notes.

Inventory & Stock Control:

• Monitor stock levels across various departments and ensure the availability of necessary items without overstocking.
• Work with department heads to forecast needs based on occupancy rates, forecasted covers, seasonal trends, and C&E events.
• Maintain and track inventory records, managing stock rotation to minimize wastage or spoilage.

Cost Control & Budgeting:

• Work with the hotel’s finance and operations teams to develop purchasing budgets and ensure purchases align with budget constraints.
• Assist in preparing and adhering to the hotel’s daily food flash.
• Assist in implementing a purchasing/procurement system at the hotel.
• Regularly assess and identify opportunities for cost-saving measures or process improvements.
• Ensure that all purchases are made within the agreed budget limits while maintaining quality and meeting operational needs.

Vendor Management & Relationship Building:

• Develop and maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers, ensuring quality service and timely delivery.
• Manage vendor contracts, including pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms.
• Resolve any issues with suppliers regarding the quality of products, pricing discrepancies, or delivery delays.

Quality Control & Compliance:

• Ensure all products meet the hotel’s quality standards and adhere to health, safety, sustainability requirements and legal regulations.
• Monitor product quality and ensure compliance with food safety and environmental regulations where applicable (e.g., sustainable sourcing practices, allergy information for food products).
• Handle the return or replacement of defective or substandard items.

Collaboration with Hotel Departments:

• Collaborate with key hotel departments (e.g., housekeeping, kitchen, maintenance, and guest relations) to understand their specific needs and coordinate the timely purchase of necessary supplies.
• Communicate effectively with department heads to ensure efficient order processing and avoid operational disruptions.
• Provide training and guidance to purchasing staff and other departments on SOPs and best practices related to procurement processes.
• Monitor and track adherence to SOPs within the purchasing department to ensure compliance at all times.
• Manage the creation, implementation, and regular updating of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for purchasing processes, ensuring they are in line with hotel policies and the new procurement/purchasing system.

Record-Keeping & Reporting:

• Maintain accurate purchasing records, order histories, and supplier agreements.
• Generate purchasing reports for management, providing data on spending, supplier performance, and inventory status.
• Analyse purchasing data to provide insights into spending patterns and identify areas for improvement.

• Proven experience in procurement or purchasing management within the luxury hospitality industry.

• Strong supplier negotiation skills with the ability to secure high-quality products at competitive prices.

• Comprehensive knowledge of food & beverage, housekeeping, and hotel operations supply requirements.

• Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with local and international vendors.

• Expertise in budgeting, cost control, and inventory management to support hotel financial targets.

•   Familiarity with sustainable purchasing practices and commitment to Sofitel’s environmental standards.

• Strong analytical skills to monitor market trends, pricing, and product availability.

• Proficiency with purchasing systems. 

• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with all hotel departments.

• Strong organisational abilities, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities.

• High level of integrity and adherence to brand standards and compliance requirements.

• Ability to lead, mentor, and develop a small purchasing team. 

Discover a world of unparalleled perks tailored just for you:

• Competitive Salary, service charge and an annual 10% performance bonus. 
• Employee Benefit Card – Discounted rates at Accor properties worldwide.
• Free Stays in the UK or Ireland (4 nights/year) – Create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
• Sofitel Experience – Enjoy a luxurious night at our hotel, complete with a delightful breakfast.
• Complimentary Meals While on Duty.
• Special Rates in F&B, Rooms & Spa – Treat yourself to luxury at unbeatable prices.
• Be Part of the Largest Hospitality Group in Europe.
• Exceptional Training and Development Opportunities through Apprenticeship Program.
• Global Growth Opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program with 24/7 GP Access – Your well-being is our priority.
• Social Events and Activities.

Bring passion and dedication to excellence, and we will recognise your contribution with a variety of benefits, rewards and development opportunities. We also offer a range of wellbeing initiatives, including apps with content to help you feel at your best. Join us, and you can thrive as an individual as well as being part of a supportive and inclusive team.

Let your passion shine, visit careers.accor.com