Supplier management isn’t just a procurement issue — it’s a business-critical function for recruitment agencies, especially those scaling or working across multiple sectors.

Uncontrolled supplier lists lead to inconsistent service.
If you’re working with multiple payroll providers, umbrella companies, software platforms, or advertising channels without a centralised approach, the cracks start to show. Miscommunication. Missed deadlines. Overlapping costs.

Lack of visibility impacts margins.
Without proper supplier oversight, you’re likely overspending on duplicated tools, outdated job boards, or paying inconsistent rates for services. This directly affects profitability and resource allocation.

Time drain on consultants and back office teams.
Chasing supplier queries, sorting payment issues, or navigating poor service can eat into valuable time that should be spent on clients and candidates.

Fragmented processes increase risk.
Inconsistent compliance standards or onboarding processes via different suppliers can leave you open to legal or reputational risk — especially when dealing with IR35, GDPR, or contractor payroll.

Good supplier management brings control and clarity.
When you streamline your supplier relationships — with agreed terms, KPIs, and regular reviews — you reduce noise, gain consistency, and make space for smarter decisions.

It’s not about cutting suppliers, it’s about managing them effectively.