Supplier Program Manager - HVAC

Dakota Supply Group•Plymouth, MN

4d•$74,300 - $123,900•Onsite

About The Position

DSG is seeking a HVAC Supplier Program Manager to join our team. As a Supplier Program Manager, you will be responsible for developing and managing strategic partnerships with key manufacturers, ensuring the continued profitability of supplier programs, and facilitating product alignment with the field. This position will act as the primary liaison between our suppliers, corporate functions, and field teams, ensuring smooth supplier program communication and collaboration across all levels of the organization. This position will utilize a deep understanding of supplier relationships to drive improvements in profitability while aligning product strategies with business goals. At DSG, we are dedicated to building futures one job at a time. Starting with yours. As an ESOP, we are a community of peers, first and foremost. And we focus on cultivating an environment of respect, teamwork and growth. Where your career path is rich with possibilities. Where every success is shared. And where every challenge is overcome together. For more than a century, we’ve delivered more than supplies, we’ve offered true partnership and valuable solutions. By continuing to empower the future of our vendors and customers, we will empower a future of ongoing success for all of us.

Requirements

Minimum 5+ years of experience in supplier management, program management, or procurement, preferably in a similar industry.
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred.
Proven track record of successfully negotiating pricing, terms, rebates, and co-op funds with suppliers.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and manage relationships at all levels of the organization.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage complex supplier data and maximize profitability.
Familiarity with industry trends, supplier management best practices, and key challenges within the relevant market segment.
Ability to travel up to 50%.
Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)

Nice To Haves

Relevant certifications (e.g., CPIM, C.P.M.) a plus.
Experience working with manufacturers and suppliers, preferred.
Familiarity with supplier management software or tools, preferred.
Active participation in industry groups or trade associations is a plus.
Effective project management abilities
Relationship-building and stakeholder management
High attention to detail and ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
Ability to work independently and in a collaborative environment
Strategic thinking and business acumen

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain long-term supplier strategies, in collaboration segment leadership, that maximize enterprise value through supplier alignment, negotiated programs, portfolio optimization, profitability improvement, and strategic manufacturer partnerships. Recommend supplier strategies that support the business priorities established by segment leadership.
Negotiate and manage annual supplier programs, including pricing, payment terms, rebates, and co-op funds, ensuring optimal financial outcomes for the company.
Partner with finance and procurement teams to grow supplier rebates and incentives, taking ownership of rebate maximization strategies.
Analyze supplier performance, profitability, rebate attainment, purchasing trends, and other key metrics to provide recommendations that improve supplier effectiveness and support informed business decisions.
Collaborate closely with the VP Segment Strategy and/or VP Segment Directors, to organize, negotiate, implement, and track strategic product alignment across the organization.
Act as the corporate liaison between suppliers and field teams. Regularly inform suppliers of relevant company news, product launches, sales initiatives, and strategic updates. Similarly, keep the field informed of pertinent supplier news and opportunities.
Serve as the intermediary between suppliers, corporate support teams and the field, resolving issues and ensuring smooth communication when necessary.
Maintain an open feedback loop with field teams to stay informed about supplier needs, opportunities, and performance feedback.
Assist field teams with supplier negotiations when required, ensuring favorable terms and outcomes.
Actively participate in trade associations and attend industry conferences to stay informed of market trends and expand professional networks.
Collaborate with field teams and purchasing departments to resolve supplier-related issues and ensure smooth operations.
Develop and maintain a Supplier Profitability Grading Scale to aid key associates in making informed decisions regarding supplier partnerships and product offerings.
All other duties as assigned.