Vendor Relations Specialist - VRS2028-BD6

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

Job summary

R.W. Mercer Co. seeks a resourceful Vendor Relations Specialist to join our team on a full-time contract basis, focusing on building strong vendor partnerships and managing contracts.

You will monitor vendor performance, negotiate terms, and support efficient procurement processes while maintaining accurate documentation. Remote, hybrid, or onsite arrangements are available according to company policy. Collaborating with procurement, legal, and finance, you will stay ahead of market trends and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or related field preferred.
• 2–4 years of experience in vendor management, procurement, supply chain, or contract administration.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency with vendor management software and MS Office.
• Ability to interpret and draft simple contract terms and agreements.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and multitasking abilities.
• High level of integrity and the ability to handle confidential business information.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team in a dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as main contact for vendor communications and relationships.
• Coordinate vendor onboarding, compliance, and due diligence.
• Track vendor performance and drive improvement initiatives.
• Negotiate terms, pricing, and agreements.
• Maintain detailed contract records and communications.
• Process POs, invoices, and procurement documents.
• Evaluate vendor proposals for value and quality.
• Investigate disputes and non-compliance with vendors.
• Collaborate with procurement, legal, and finance.
• Stay current on market trends and supply chain developments.
• Prepare vendor reports and leadership recommendations.
• Support vendor audits and reporting documentation.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Relationship building

Contract administration

Vendor management software

Microsoft Office

Education

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

Tools

Vendor management software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

We are seeking a resourceful and communicative Vendor Relations Specialist to join our team on a full-time contract basis. The Vendor Relations Specialist will be responsible for fostering positive relationships with vendors, managing contracts, monitoring vendor performance, and supporting efficient procurement processes. The ideal candidate excels in communication, negotiation, organizational tasks, and building long-term business partnerships to benefit the company's operations.

Key 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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related field preferred.
• 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.
• Ability to interpret and draft simple contract terms and agreements.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and multitasking abilities.
• High level of integrity and the ability to handle confidential business information.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team in a dynamic environment.

Compensation & Contract Benefits

• Annual Contract Rate: 120,000 per year, commensurate with experience.
• Schedule: Full-time contract, approximately 40 hours per week.
• Contract Duration: Initial assignment, with potential for extension based on performance and business needs.
• Work Arrangement: Remote, hybrid, or onsite options available according to company policy.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for vendor management training, procurement certifications, and career advancement.
• Collaborative Environment: Work cross-functionally with multiple departments to support robust supplier relationships.

Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.