Associate Supplier Manager
About The Position
The Associate Supplier Manager plays a critical role in managing a portfolio of suppliers to ensure performance, cost-effectiveness, and supply continuity. This role is responsible for negotiating cost and contract terms, building and maintaining supplier relationships, and identifying supply and operational risks. The Associate Supplier Manager works closely with cross-functional teams to support aligned product categories and contribute to strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate plans and aligns priorities across stakeholders, operates in a dynamic environment, and balances competing priorities to deliver optimal outcomes for the business. You will report to the Senior Manager, Supplier Management. This is a hybrid position that is based in Lake Forest or Chicago 3 days a week.
Requirements
- Bachelor's Degree BS/BA or equivalent required
- 3+ years experience in related field required
- Experience supporting the translation of strategic goals into actionable tactics, leveraging analytics and business insights to drive data driven decisions.
- Experience independently prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to achieve business objectives and goals.
- Experience adopting to new processes, applying industry trends, understanding product specifications, and implementing operational workflows.
Responsibilities
- Support the development of procurement strategies that align with Grainger’s commercial goals and product assortment needs.
- Connect analytical insights to strategies, decisions and actions. Assist with industry research to learn and understand supplier landscapes, cost drivers, and procurement challenges.
- Help identify potential sources of supply that meet customer needs, quality standards, availability and cost targets.
- Manage supplier relationships aligned to a portfolio of small to mid-sized suppliers. Lead supplier discussions and negotiation efforts.
- Build working relationships with suppliers and assist in resolving operational issues in collaboration with internal teams.
- Work cross-functionally with teams (e.g. Merchandising, Inventory, Transportation, Supplier Performance Management) to support category strategies, ensure product availability and improve operational efficiencies.
- Organize and facilitate meetings with internal and external stakeholders, supplier visits, and trade show participation to support category and supplier engagement.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans with coverage starting on day one of employment
- 6 free sessions each year with a licensed therapist to support your emotional wellbeing.
- 18 paid time off (PTO) days annually for full-time employees (accrual prorated based on employment start date)
- 6 company holidays per year.
- 6% company contribution to a 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan each pay period, no employee contribution required.
- Employee discounts
- Tuition reimbursement
- Student loan refinancing
- Free access to financial counseling, education, and tools.
- Maternity support programs
- Nursing benefits
- Up to 14 weeks paid leave for birth parents
- Up to 4 weeks paid leave for non-birth parents.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
