Vendor Manager, Field Support

The Vendor Manager is responsible for managing the overall health and effectiveness of CrossCom’s Variable Field Tech (VFT) Network and for developing and maintaining strong relationships with our VFTs to ensure the efficient and cost-effective supply of required services. Direct reports will include staffers that engage in prospecting, recruiting, and support related to the VFT network. As a key manager in the organization, the Vendor / VFT Manager will have accountability to ensure that appropriate capacity and the proper skillsets exist (at scale) within the VFT network. The Vendor / VFT Manager is also responsible to expand the VFT network into new skillsets and new territories when required. Key responsibilities, required Experience/Education, and Competencies are detailed below.

Responsibilities

• Identify potential VFTs and assess their suitability based on quality, cost, reliability, and compliance with company standards.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with vendors to secure favorable terms, pricing, and service level agreements.
• Collaborate with legal and admin teams to ensure contract compliance and risk mitigation.
• Cultivate strong and mutually beneficial relationships with VFTs, serving as the primary point of contact.
• Generate regular reports on VFT performance, cost savings, and KPI; conduct thorough vendor evaluations and performance reviews to ensure vendors meet or exceed established criteria.
• Monitor vendor performance to ensure adherence to quality standards and compliance with product specifications; implement quality improvement initiatives as needed.
• Analyze pricing structures and cost strategies to identify cost saving opportunities; develop and implement cost reduction strategies while maintaining quality standards
• Ensure VFTs comply with all relevant regulations, industry standards, and company policies.
• Assess and mitigate risks associated with VFT relationships.
• Use data-driven insights to make informed decisions and improvements.

Qualifications

·        Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

·        Proven experience in vendor management or procurement, with a minimum of 5 years in a similar role.

·        Working knowledge of Structured Cabling/Low Voltage (CAT5 / CAT6), Telco, and Retail IT industry concepts highly desired / preferred.

·        Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

·        Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.

·        Familiarity with contract law and procurement regulations.

·        Proficiency in using software, BI Tools to create and utilize vendor KPI.

·        Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.

·        Detail-oriented and highly organized.

·        Results-driven with a focus on achieving cost savings and efficiency.

Competencies

·        Strong leader with the ability to motivate team members and achieve successful outcomes

·        Strong decision-making and execution skills

·        Excellent communication skills

·        Strong industry awareness

·        Strong People skills

·        Demonstrated ability to adapt and be resourceful

·        Superior negotiation skills

·        Solid analytical and presentation skills

·        Strong conflict management skills

·        Proven ability to network

·        Proficient in use of Microsoft Excel (minimum skill requirement includes being able to use features such as V-Lookup, creating and manipulating pivot tables, producing multi-scale charting, keyboard shortcuts, etc.)

·        Proficient in use of Microsoft Word, to assist in creating and modifying Department documentation

·        Proficient in use of Microsoft PowerPoint, to create and update various slide content for both internal and external use

·        Must be results oriented and demonstrate an appropriate sense of urgency as required to successfully deliver on required Department targets

CrossCom