A job with Merlin isn’t like a job anywhere else. With attractions around the world, from rollercoasters to wax figures, we don’t trade in suits, handshakes or briefcases. We trade in fun. In smiles, shrieks and spine-tingles. In memories. In magic. But there are no tricks behind our magic. Instead, there are people like you. Passionate, dedicated people who are committed to making sure our worldwide attractions and guests’ experiences are the best they can be.

Due to continuing growth and development of Merlin’s attractions and brands on a global scale, we are looking for a Senior Procurement Manager - Capital Contracts to join our Group Procurement team on a permanent basis. The role will be based at our Merlin Technical Hub office based in our thrilling Thorpe Park Resort in Chertsey, Surrey. Hybrid-working is available for those looking for more flexibility.

You will lead the development, negotiation, and administration of procurement contracts for all Merlin Magic Making (MMM) capital projects. This global role requires expertise in contract management, supplier negotiations, and procurement strategy, ensuring contracts are legally compliant, cost-effective, and performance-driven.

You will have a proven track record in strategic procurement, contract lifecycle management, and risk mitigation while also mentoring junior staff and influencing key stakeholders.

More about the role... 

🤝 Strategic Contract Negotiation

• Lead high-value contract negotiations, securing favourable supplier terms.
• Develop strong contractual terms to minimize risk and maximize value.
• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance in collaboration with legal teams.

📜 Contract Lifecycle Management

• Manage contracts from award to close-out, ensuring performance compliance.
• Address disputes, claims, and variations promptly.
• Maintain records for audit readiness and transparency.

⚠️ Risk Management & Compliance

• Identify and mitigate procurement risks, including financial and compliance issues.
• Conduct contract reviews to ensure alignment with policies and industry standards. 

👫 Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership

• Support tendering processes and integrate contracts into procurement strategies.
• Lead cross-functional teams in negotiations and supplier management.
• Act as the key contact for contract-related matters and risk assessments. 
• Foster continuous improvement and innovation within procurement. 
  
  

• Significant experience within increasingly senior procurement roles, with a strong focus on tendering and supplier management for capital projects
• Extensive experience in managing high-value, complex procurement contracts.
• Must have experience of capital project procurement within construction, or infrastructure sectors
• Proven expertise in tendering, contract negotiation, and supplier performance management
• A degree in Business or related discipline is required
• A Professional Procurement qualification (e.g. certification) is desirable
• Knowledge and experience or the different tendering and procurement methods utilised in construction contracts, i.e negotiation, two-stage, single stage, and Traditional, Design Build and Construction Management Methods would be beneficial
• Knowledge and experience of different contract types, from consultant appointments to construction contracts and industry standard contract suites, such as JCT or AIA would also be beneficial
• Strong knowledge of procurement regulations, contract law, and risk mitigation strategies
• Proficiency in contract management tools
• Proficiency in procurement and ERP systems
• Advanced contract drafting and negotiation skills
• Excellent analytical, communication, and leadership abilities
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to influence and manage stakeholders across all levels
• Resilience and adaptability in a fast-paced environment
• Innovative thought and actions in relation to problem solving
• Excellent quantitative and data analysis skills
• Strong negotiation, interpersonal, and leadership skills
• Comfortable with ambiguity and managing potentially conflicting views
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

We’re growing fast and alongside a fun and friendly environment, we offer a fabulous package and amazing prospects – ideal if you’re already fantastic and want to become even better (our magic can help here). Benefits include Pension, Life Assurance, discretionary company bonus, 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, a Merlin Magic Pass which gives you and your friends and family free admission to all of our attractions worldwide, an Enjoy the Ride pass which entitles you and 5 loved ones unlimited entry into your regional attractions, 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants and 40% discount on LEGO, plus lots more!

If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at Recruitment@Merlinentertainments.biz and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.