Vendor Relations Manager

ABOUT US:

OVERVIEW:

The Vendor Relations Manager is responsible for building, managing, and strengthening relationships with vendors, manufacturers, and suppliers within the telecom and electrical industries. This role oversees vendor onboarding, product line additions, pricing coordination, and ongoing vendor performance to ensure product availability, competitive costs, and alignment with company goals.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage day-to-day relationships with vendors, manufacturers, and suppliers
• Lead vendor onboarding, including qualification, documentation, and system setup 
  
• Evaluate, approve, and launch new product lines and manufacturers 
  
• Coordinate pricing, lead times, minimum order quantities, and terms with vendors 
  
• Work closely with purchasing, sales, and logistics teams to ensure accurate product data and availability 
  
• Monitor vendor performance related to quality, delivery, and responsiveness 
  
• Resolve vendor-related issues, including shortages, backorders, and product discrepancies 
  
• Maintain vendor records, contracts, and product line documentation 
  
• Identify opportunities to expand product offerings or improve vendor partnerships 
  
• Support sourcing initiatives for telecom and electrical materials
• Ensure vendors meet company standards, compliance requirements, and industry expectations
• Work closely with the marketing team and be responsible for helping coordinate obtaining new vendor product lines for e-commerce upload. 
  
• Collaborate with the sales team and join sales calls to support and build client confidence through product expertise
  

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years of experience in vendor management, supplier relations, purchasing, or sourcing
• Experience in telecom, electrical, construction, or industrial distribution preferred
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills 
  
• Excellent organizational and communication abilities 
  
• Ability to manage multiple vendors and product lines simultaneously 
  
• Proficient in ERP systems (NetSuite experience a plus) and Microsoft Office 
  
• Detail-oriented with strong follow-through 
  

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• Understanding of telecom and electrical product categories
• Experience adding and managing manufacturer product lines 
  
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally with sales and operations teams
• Analytical mindset with the ability to assess vendor performance and costs