Supplier Manager

Aramsco

2d•$78,000 - $88,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Supplier Manager manages assigned product lines, leads supplier relationships, and oversees product-level details and recommendations. The role collaborates with the Merchandising Team on product development, manages supplier programs to maximize value, and leads SKU rationalization. It also analyzes product-line performance, works with Technical Managers to engage suppliers on product specifications and technical support, and defines and manages core supplier relationships, including pricing and cost changes. The position leads supplier partnerships and negotiations, manages product-line and SKU decisions, supports product development, and coordinates supplier programs such as rebates, co-op funding, and promotions. The Supplier Manager monitors sales, margins, market trends, and competitor pricing, and communicates product pricing and cost changes to internal stakeholders. The role is remote/hybrid, with occasional travel to supplier locations, industry events, or company branches, and may require extended hours during product launches or major initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, or a related field; relevant experience may substitute for formal education.
At least 5 years of experience in supplier or category management, preferably in the industrial or distribution sector.
Proven experience in supplier negotiations, product development, and SKU management.
Strong supplier relationship and negotiation skills, with conceptual and practical expertise in the area and general knowledge of related areas.
Excellent analytical skills and ability to interpret sales data, market trends, and supplier performance metrics.
Expertise in product-line analysis and SKU rationalization.
Strong communication and presentation skills, including the ability to influence stakeholders, explain complex or sensitive information, and build consensus.
Collaborative, proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
Demonstrated ability to grow sales of assigned product lines and projects, and track initiative outcomes.
Ability to solve complex problems, take new perspectives using existing solutions, and work independently with minimal guidance.
Ability to act as a resource for team members and potentially lead projects with limited risks and resource requirements.
Ability to balance big-picture thinking with attention to detail.
Ability to prioritize independently, manage multiple projects, and work well in a fast-paced environment.
Flexibility and willingness to take on changing responsibilities and learn new things.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced Excel skills.
Ability to work extended hours during product launches or major initiatives.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with ERP or product management systems.
Experience in the industrial or distribution sector.
Ability to travel occasionally to supplier locations, industry events, or company branches.

Responsibilities

Lead and maintain supplier relationships as the primary point of contact.
Define and manage core supplier partnerships in alignment with company goals and objectives.
Negotiate supplier pricing, terms, and program agreements to reduce costs and maximize value.
Manage and maintain assigned product lines, ensuring performance and alignment with customer needs.
Serve as a subject matter expert on product and SKU details and recommend improvements or adjustments.
Lead SKU rationalization, including line extensions, consolidations, deletions, and stocking-status decisions.
Collaborate with the Merchandising Team on product development, contributing supplier insights and product expertise.
Provide insight and communication on internal factors that improve price realization, drive capacity, and enhance margin contribution.
Partner with Technical Managers to engage suppliers on product specifications, technical support, and troubleshooting.
Work cross-functionally to align supplier programs and product strategies with company objectives.
Manage supplier programs, including rebates, co-op funding, and promotional initiatives.
Analyze sales, margins, and market trends to identify product-line improvement opportunities.
Develop and execute plans to address underperforming products or categories.
Define and manage product pricing strategies and cost changes with suppliers.
Monitor market conditions and competitor pricing to maintain competitive positioning.
Communicate pricing updates and cost changes to internal stakeholders in a timely and effective manner.
Track the success of initiatives and grow sales of assigned product lines and projects.