In this critical Vendor Manager role, you will play a pivotal role in supporting and managing strategic partnerships with our vendors. You will be responsible for sourcing, evaluating, negotiating, and overseeing vendor contracts, ensuring alignment with our business objectives and maximizing value for Stratus. You will be a key player in our supply chain, contributing directly to our company's success.

Our Exceptional Benefits Plan includes:

• Supportive & Friendly Culture
• Manage national accounts for Fortune 500 companies
• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage options
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Company paid Life Insurance
• 401k with Employer Contribution
• Company paid Short/Long Term Disability
• Generous Paid Time Off program + Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Career Mapping
• Additional perks including Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Program (Non-Union employees), Identity Theft Protection, Critical Illness Plans, Commuter Benefits and various employee discount offerings from our Vendors 
• Per diems available when traveling

Stratus is one of the nation’s largest brand implementation companies. We are made up of 1,100+ employees nationwide who roll up their sleeves, dive into the details and bring our clients’ brands to life! We deliver versatile solutions for some of the nation’s largest and most recognized brands. From exterior signage & interior branding to site refresh & remodel, from energy & lighting to repair & maintenance solutions, we deliver ideal solutions to meet all our client's branding needs.

Strategic Vendor Management:

• Support and implement comprehensive vendor management strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• As directed, negotiate and manage contracts, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for Stratus.
• Build and maintain a strong, collaborative relationships with a portfolio of key vendors.
• Oversee vendor performance, conduct regular evaluations, and address any performance issues proactively.

Sourcing and Procurement:

• Conduct thorough market research to identify the best vendors for specific needs.
• Analyze vendor pricing, quality, and service offerings to support vendor selection.
• Under direction of VP 3^rd Party Manufacturing, manage vendor selection process to ensure objectivity and efficiency.
• Maintain and update vendor matrix to be used for all purchasing. 

Cost Optimization and Savings:

• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify and implement cost-saving initiatives with vendors.
• Negotiate competitive pricing and terms to optimize overall procurement costs.
• Monitor market trends and identify opportunities for improved pricing and services.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Analyze vendor performance data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare regular reports on vendor performance, including but not limited to, procurement cost analysis and quality.
• Utilize data insights to inform strategic decision-making and identify areas for improvement.

Continuous Improvement:

• Proactively identify opportunities to improve vendor management processes and procedures.
• Stay up to date on industry best practices and implement them within the vendor management program.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize the procurement process and drive efficiencies.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and related software applications.

Education, experience, certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Purchasing, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in vendor management or a related role.
• Proven track record of success in negotiating and managing vendor contracts.

Physical & Mental Demands:

• Ability to travel 25% of the time, at minimum.

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