Supplier Relations Specialist

Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services; Marietta (GA); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Cobb County Fire and Emergency Services is seeking a role dedicated to advancing supplier diversity and inclusion. The position serves as the primary resource for small and diverse suppliers, guiding them through registration, documentation, and procurement processes while building long‑term relationships.

A hybrid work arrangement is available, with potential for remote work after 90 days pending supervisor approval.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, or related field.
• 4 years of experience in procurement, contracting, or diversity & inclusion in large public sector.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Supports new small and diverse suppliers through registration, documentation, and system setup.
• Provides hands-on guidance to suppliers on procurement processes and solicitations.
• Coordinates outreach events, workshops, and information sessions with logistics and follow-up.

Skills

Procurement guidance

Supplier onboarding

Communication

Data management

Education

Bachelor's degree in public administration or related field

Job description

Position Information

The purpose of this position is to support the organization’s supplier diversity and inclusion efforts by serving as a primary resource for small and diverse suppliers as they navigate procurement processes. The role strengthens equitable access through hands‑on assistance, proactive communication, accurate data maintenance, and coordinated outreach that collectively enhance supplier readiness and long‑term engagement.

Candidates selected for an interview will be required to deliver a 10–15 minute PowerPoint presentation as part of the interview process. The presentation will provide an opportunity to demonstrate public speaking and presentation skills, as well as knowledge and understanding of core issues and topics relevant to the position. The presentation topic and specific guidelines will be provided to candidates selected for an interview.

This role is a hybrid position, with eligibility for some remote work after 90 days, pending supervisor approval.

Essential Functions

• Supports new small and diverse suppliers through registration, documentation, and system setup to ensure a smooth entry into the procurement ecosystem.
• Provides hands‑on guidance to suppliers on how to navigate procurement processes, respond to solicitations, and understand county requirements.
• Coordinates outreach events, workshops, and information sessions; manage logistics, invitations, and follow‑up communications.
• Maintains regular communication with small and diverse suppliers to understand needs, gather feedback, and strengthen long‑term relationships.
• Delivers clear, confident public presentations and presents program information to internal and external audiences when delegated or in the absence of the Manager, Supplier Inclusion & Small Business Opportunities Program .
• Assists suppliers in understanding certification options (MBE, WBE, SBE, DBE, VBE, etc.) and direct them to appropriate certifying agencies.
• Maintains accurate supplier profiles, diversity classifications, and contact information in procurement systems.
• Notifies suppliers of relevant upcoming solicitations and ensure they receive timely information about opportunities.
• Troubleshoots supplier challenges related to registration, bidding platforms, documentation, or compliance requirements.
• Identifies potential small and diverse suppliers in key commodity areas and share leads with the Manager and procurement staff.
• Tracks supplier participation in outreach events and maintain engagement metrics for reporting.
• Assist with compiling utilization data, outreach summaries, and supplier engagement metrics for internal and Board-level reporting.
• Serves as a primary point of contact for small and diverse suppliers, fostering trust and ensuring a positive experience with the county.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, or related field required; supplemented by four (4) years of experience in procurement, contracting, or diversity & inclusion programs with a large‑scale public sector organization; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skill, and abilities for this job.

Licenses and Certifications

Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License.

Physical Abilities

Tasks require the ability to exert light physical effort in sedentary to light work, but which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of light weight (5-10 pounds). Tasks may involve extended periods of time at a keyboard or work station.

Sensory Requirements

Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors and sounds. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.

Environmental Factors

Essential functions are regularly performed without exposure to adverse environmental conditions with the exception of duties related to surplus property.

EEO Statement

Cobb County Government is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.