The Vendor Manager implements the corporate strategic sourcing and vendor relations function and associated processes to ensure the company is strategically sourcing services with the highest level of quality and in the most cost effective manner.
Essential Functions:

Working closely with executive leadership, business owners, and staff throughout the organization to ensure that new requirements are sourced in a timely manner and that existing contractual relationships are closely monitored and managed to ensure that Client receives the highest quality of contracted services
Conduct market research and analysis to identify areas of opportunity for the organization and ensure that current vendors are providing innovative solutions within their specific lines of business
In partnership with business owners, identify opportunities for consolidation or bundling of certain organization-wide requirements to help drive standardization and more cost effective and efficient operations
Assume lead negotiator role coordinating and directing the negotiation process and tactics with outside suppliers, legal counsel, and business managers
Establish and maintain partnerships with internal customers and suppliers for maximum value and policy compliance
Collaborate with legal to ensure contracts follow the contract review and approval process per company policy. Analyze vendor contracts and recommend appropriate changes
Manage and improve supplier diversity within our vendor base and support local economic development programs
Research internal customer needs and identify the best supplier to provide corporate services
Develop and implement corporate policies and procedures to guide the entire sourcing and vendor relations process
Support business owners with the completion of an Investment Proposal (IP), Return on Investment (ROI), or other financial analysis as required to support new initiatives. In conjunction with Finance, monitor vendor performance versus ROI assumptions identified in the IP
Minimize financial risks to Client
Confer with Treasury regarding capital expenditures by conducting lease versus purchase analyses and recommendations
Perform prospective vendor assessments including financial stability and customer reference checks
Lead process improvement initiatives within the department
Assess vendor contract performance by regularly reviewing contract and vendor performance to assess effectiveness, efficiency and quality
Onboard of newly selected vendors according to established guidelines
Adhere to vendor conflict of interest and gift policies
Perform any other job related instructions, as requested

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in business management or related discipline or equivalent years of relevant work experience required
Over 5 years of related strategic sourcing, vendor relations and negotiation experience is required

Competencies, Knowledge and Skills:

strong Microsoft Office skills
Experienced with automated purchase order system and maintenance
Ability to make decisions and work independently
Self-starter and ability to lead large, multi-disciplinary teams
Knowledge of federal, state and URAC/NCQA guidelines
Must have a thorough understanding of the application of strategic sourcing principles including; spend analysis, concept and strategy development, market analysis and research, requirements definition, Statement of Work (SOW) development, Request for Proposal (RFP) development and management, vendor negotiations, contract development, vendor onboarding and management, and contract management
strong vendor relations and negotiation skills are required to ensure that Client receives the overall best value and that contract requirements are met on a continuous basis
Ability to develop strategic vendor partnerships with select vendors that ensure increased value and long-term benefit to the organization. Excellent customer service skills to effectively communicate with internal and external customers
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Ability to interact with both internal and external customers and interface with multiple levels within the Company
Excellent organizational skills to manage vendor and contract base
Familiarity with the healthcare industry
E-based process improvement techniques, training/teaching skills

***must have extensive vendor supply contracts experience***