Remote Vendor Relations & Procurement Specialist

R.W. Mercer Co.; Kansas City (MO); Hybrid; USD 108,000 - 132,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote options

Training & certs

Career advancement

Job summary

R.W. Mercer Co. is seeking a resourceful Vendor Relations Specialist to join on a full-time contract basis.

The role focuses on fostering positive vendor relationships, managing contracts, and monitoring performance to optimize procurement processes. The ideal candidate will excel in communication, negotiation, and organization, with the ability to build long-term partnerships and support cross-functional teams across procurement, legal, and finance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Procurement, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of experience in vendor management, procurement, supply chain, or contract administration.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Proven experience handling contracts, purchase orders, and procurement processes.
• Proficiency with vendor management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and online collaboration tools.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the main point of contact for vendor communications, inquiries, and relationship management.
• Coordinate and manage vendor onboarding, compliance, and due diligence processes.
• Track and review vendor performance, resolve issues, and facilitate performance improvement initiatives.
• Negotiate terms, pricing, and agreements to maximize value and minimize risk for the organization.
• Maintain detailed records of contracts, agreements, and communications with vendors.
• Process purchase orders, invoices, and supporting procurement documentation as required.
• Evaluate vendor proposals, pricing, and quality of service during the selection process.
• Investigate and resolve disputes or non-compliance issues with vendors in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with internal teams—including procurement, legal, and finance—to ensure procurement goals and compliance requirements are met.
• Stay up-to-date with market trends, product offerings, and supply chain developments.
• Prepare regular vendor reports, performance summaries, and recommendations for leadership.
• Support vendor audits and ensure accurate documentation for reporting and compliance.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Relationship building

Vendor management

Procurement processes

Contracts drafting

Analytical skills

Multitasking

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Vendor management software

Microsoft Office

Online collaboration tools

Job description

R.W. Mercer Co. is seeking a resourceful Vendor Relations Specialist to join on a full-time contract basis.

The role focuses on fostering positive vendor relationships, managing contracts, and monitoring performance to optimize procurement processes. The ideal candidate will excel in communication, negotiation, and organization, with the ability to build long-term partnerships and support cross-functional teams across procurement, legal, and finance.