Vendor Relations Manager - Security Equipment

thestaffpad; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

thestaffpad is seeking an experienced Security Equipment Vendor Relations Manager in St. Louis, MO. This role focuses on developing and managing vendor partnerships to optimize costs, ensure quality, and maintain supply continuity.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management and 5–7 years of relevant experience. Strong negotiation skills and proficiency with ERP systems are essential. Join us to enhance vendor relationships while contributing to operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years experience in procurement, sourcing, or vendor management.
• Experience in distribution, manufacturing, or retail environments with large vendor networks.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary contact for vendor relationships and communications.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives, including pricing improvements and contract optimization.
• Analyze vendor performance, spend, and service metrics.

Skills

Strong negotiation and relationship management abilities

Proficiency with ERP systems and reporting tools such as Power BI

Strong analytical skills

Detail-oriented and results-driven

Collaborative and team-focused

Strategic thinking and proactive problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Preferred certifications: CPSM, CPP, or equivalent

Tools

ERP systems

Power BI

Job description

The Staff Pad has partnered with a leading wholesale distributor of electronic security and low-voltage solutions, located in St, Louis, MO, and we are looking to hire an experienced Security Equipment Vendor Relations Manager. The Vendor Relations Manager develops and manages strategic vendor partnerships to support company objectives, cost competitiveness, and supply continuity. This role ensures the acquisition of high-quality products and services at the best value while supporting operational needs and maintaining strong vendor relationships.

What You’ll Do

Develop and implement strategic sourcing and vendor management initiatives that foster strong supplier partnerships, ensure compliance and operational efficiency, and optimize cost, quality, and delivery performance in support of business objectives.

Essential Functions

Vendor Management

• Serve as the primary contact for vendor relationships and communications
• Identify, evaluate, onboard, and manage vendors aligned with company requirements
• Conduct due diligence on financial stability, operational capability, compliance, and supply risks
• Ensure vendors meet standards for quality, reliability, and system integration
• Maintain structured vendor approval processes, documentation, and controls
• Identify underperforming or redundant vendors and recommend consolidation actions

Contract Management & Commercial Alignment

• Support negotiations of vendor pricing, terms, service levels, and agreements
• Manage contract renewals, amendments, and performance tracking
• Ensure vendor compliance with contractual, legal, and financial requirements
• Partner with leadership on cost, risk, and commercial strategy decisions

Cost Management & Value Optimization

• Drive cost-saving initiatives, including pricing improvements, rebates, and contract optimization
• Analyze vendor spend and identify savings opportunities
• Support negotiations related to cost increases and mitigation strategies
• Align vendor programs with company margin objectives

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze vendor performance, spend, and service metrics
• Establish KPIs and provide regular reporting on vendor health, risks, and improvement initiatives
• Maintain accurate documentation, reporting, and audit readiness

Risk Mitigation & Quality Resolution

• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks and disruptions (including market fluctuations)
• Resolve vendor quality issues through corrective actions and continuous improvement
• Develop contingency plans to ensure supply continuity

Additional Functions

• Support vendor promotions and ensure alignment with sales and marketing strategies
• Manage vendor rebate programs, including tracking, reporting, and collection
• Participate as a key member of the Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) team to align supply chain activities with business goals

What We Are Looking For

Education, Experience & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field
• Master’s degree preferred
• 5–7 years experience in procurement, sourcing, or vendor management
• Experience in distribution, manufacturing, or retail environments with large vendor networks
• Preferred certifications: CPSM, CPP, or equivalent

Skills & Personal Attributes

• Strong negotiation and relationship management abilities
• Proficiency with ERP systems and reporting tools such as Power BI
• Strong analytical, decision-making, and supply chain optimization skills
• Detail-oriented, results-driven, Collaborative and team-focused
• Strategic thinker with a proactive problem-solving approach

If you're a strategic, results-driven professional ready to make an impact, join the team and help drive strong supplier partnerships, cost optimization, and operational excellence. We encourage you to apply today!