Operations

Vendor Specialist

Looking to hire your next Vendor Specialist? Here’s a full job description template to use as a guide.

About Vintti

Vintti is a dynamic staffing agency bridging the gap between Latin American talent and US-based businesses. We specialize in connecting skilled professionals from Latin America with small and medium-sized businesses, startups, and firms across the United States. Our mission is to provide top-tier staffing solutions that enable US companies to access a diverse pool of talented individuals while offering exciting career opportunities to Latin American professionals. By leveraging our extensive network and deep understanding of both markets, Vintti facilitates mutually beneficial partnerships that drive growth and innovation for our clients and candidates alike.

Description

A Vendor Specialist is a vital figure in maintaining and enhancing a company's supplier relationships, ensuring seamless procurement processes. This role primarily involves evaluating, selecting, and managing vendors to guarantee the delivery of high-quality goods and services at competitive prices. Vendor Specialists engage in negotiations, contract management, and performance assessments while fostering positive collaborations. They work closely with internal teams to understand supply needs and ensure timely and efficient sourcing. By optimizing vendor partnerships, they contribute to the company's operational efficiency and overall success.

Requirements

- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field
- 3-5 years of experience in vendor management, procurement, or supply chain management
- Proven track record in negotiating contracts and managing vendor relationships
- Familiarity with vendor management software and tools
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work well under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
- Knowledge of industry trends and market conditions
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and completeness
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Experience in developing and implementing vendor management policies and procedures
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance standards
- Strong presentation and reporting skills
- Ability to travel as needed for vendor meetings and assessments
- Certification in supply chain management or procurement (e.g., CPSM, CPM) is a plus

Responsabilities

- Manage and maintain relationships with existing vendors
- Identify and assess potential new vendors
- Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing
- Monitor and evaluate vendor performance
- Facilitate onboarding for new vendors
- Maintain detailed records of vendor interactions
- Coordinate with internal departments on vendor needs
- Resolve any vendor-related issues or disputes
- Issue purchase orders and requests for proposals (RFPs)
- Review and approve vendor invoices
- Conduct market analysis on industry trends and pricing
- Audit vendor documents for accuracy
- Collaborate with finance and procurement for purchasing forecasts
- Develop vendor management policies and procedures
- Track and report on vendor performance metrics
- Ensure compliance with regulations and company policies
- Conduct vendor performance reviews and assessments
- Identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements
- Train team members on vendor management practices
- Maintain vendor databases and contact lists

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for the Vendor Specialist role is a highly organized and detail-oriented professional with a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field, and 3-5 years of hands-on experience in vendor management, procurement, or supply chain management. They have a proven track record in negotiating contracts and fostering strong vendor relationships, backed by excellent communication and interpersonal skills. This individual is adept at using vendor management software and tools, with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities that allow them to conduct thorough market analysis and identify cost-saving opportunities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, is essential, and they are familiar with regulatory requirements and compliance standards. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem solver who thrives under pressure, able to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and completeness in their work. They are self-motivated and can work independently as well as collaboratively within a team. This person is adaptable, flexible, and possesses strong negotiation skills, coupled with an empathetic and strategic mindset that prioritizes building and maintaining effective relationships. Industry certification in supply chain management or procurement (e.g., CPSM, CPM) is a plus, and the candidate should be willing to travel as needed for vendor meetings and assessments. Furthermore, they are a continuous learner, committed to staying updated on industry trends, and exhibit strong ethical standards and exceptional time management skills, making them a valuable asset in achieving the organization's vendor management goals.

On a typical day, you will...

- Manage and maintain relationships with existing vendors and suppliers
- Research and identify potential new vendors to meet organizational needs
- Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing with vendors
- Monitor vendor performance and ensure compliance with contractual terms
- Facilitate the onboarding process for new vendors
- Keep detailed records of all vendor interactions and transactions
- Coordinate with internal departments to understand and fulfill their vendor-related requirements
- Handle and resolve any issues or disputes that arise with vendors
- Prepare and issue purchase orders and requests for proposals (RFPs)
- Review and approve vendor invoices for payment
- Conduct regular market analysis to stay updated on industry trends and pricing
- Audit vendor documents and records for accuracy and completeness
- Collaborate with finance and procurement teams to forecast and plan purchasing needs
- Develop and implement vendor management policies and procedures
- Track and report on key performance metrics related to vendor management
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies
- Conduct regular vendor performance reviews and assessments
- Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements in the vendor management process
- Provide training and support to team members on vendor management best practices
- Assist in the development and maintenance of vendor databases and contact lists

What we are looking for

- Strong and effective communicator
- Proactive problem solver
- Detail-oriented
- Highly organized
- Self-motivated and independent
- Team player
- Adaptable and flexible
- Negotiation skills
- Analytical thinker
- Empathetic and good listener
- Strategic planner
- Relationship builder
- Persistent and determined
- Tech-savvy
- Market-aware
- Ethical and compliant
- Time management expert
- Continuous learner
- Strong decision-maker
- Customer-focused

What you can expect (benefits)

- Competitive salary range: $60,000 - $85,000 per year
- Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay
- Flexible work schedule
- Remote work opportunities
- Professional development and training programs
- Tuition reimbursement
- Career advancement opportunities
- Employee assistance program (EAP)
- Wellness programs and gym memberships
- Life and disability insurance
- Commuter benefits
- Employee discounts on company products and services
- Performance-based bonuses and incentives
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment
- Access to industry conferences and networking events
- Regular team-building activities and social events
- Recognition and rewards programs
- Parental leave and support programs

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