Vendor Relations manager

Security Equipment Supply Inc • Earth City, MO

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Security Equipment Supply (SES) is an independent privately held distributor of low-voltage electronics. Since 1982, SES has grown to 15 locations across 12 states, delivering trusted solutions in access control, fire and life safety, surveillance, home entertainment, and more. SES is in a transformative phase—modernizing operations, investing in technology, and enhancing customer and employee experiences. SES is committed to growing talent from within and creating meaningful career paths across the organization. Most roles provide some flexibility, offering consistency in your work, while still driving impact. At SES, employees care for what's been built and the people they work with. The company culture is defined by the values: Family • Respect • Celebration • Excellence • Integrity, and the work approach: Curiosity • Fun-Loving Spirit • Commitment to Growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• 5–7 years in procurement, sourcing, or vendor management.
• Background in distribution, manufacturing, or retail environments with large vendor portfolios.
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building abilities.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and analytics tools (Power BI or similar).
• Excellent analytical and decision-making skills.
• Knowledge of sourcing best practices and supply chain optimization.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree preferred.
• CPSM, CPP, or similar credentials preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all vendor relationships.
• Identify, evaluate, and onboard vendors aligned with company strategy and service expectations.
• Conduct due diligence on financial stability, operational capability, compliance, and supply continuity.
• Maintain a structured vendor approval and onboarding process.
• Identify underperforming or redundant suppliers and recommend consolidation.
• Support negotiation of pricing, terms, service levels, and agreements.
• Manage the full contract lifecycle, including renewals and amendments.
• Ensure vendor compliance with contractual, legal, and financial requirements.
• Partner with leadership on cost changes, risk exposure, and commercial strategy.
• Lead cost-saving initiatives such as price improvements, rebates, and contract optimization.
• Analyze vendor spend to identify cost-reduction opportunities.
• Support negotiations related to cost increases and mitigation strategies.
• Ensure vendor programs support margin objectives.
• Analyze vendor performance, spend, and service metrics.
• Define and track KPIs for vendor health, risk, and improvement initiatives.
• Ensure documentation accuracy and audit readiness.
• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks and disruptions.
• Address and resolve vendor quality issues with corrective actions.
• Develop contingency plans to ensure supply continuity.
• Support vendor promotions aligned with sales and marketing strategies.
• Manage rebate programs, ensuring accurate tracking, reporting, and collection.
• Participate as a key member of the Sales & Operations Planning team.
• Align supply chain plans with broader business goals.

Benefits

• Profit sharing & retirement: SEP IRA contributions and annual profit-sharing bonuses
• Health benefits: affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
• Career growth: ongoing development, advancement opportunities, and a promote-from-within culture

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level