Vendor Relations Manager

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Vendor Relations Manager to lead and evolve our global vendor ecosystem across cloud infrastructure, AI platforms, SaaS providers, and enterprise technology partners. This role sits at the intersection of technology operations, commercial strategy, and executive stakeholder management, and is critical to how we scale innovation responsibly and efficiently.

As a key leader within our Technology Operations organization, you will own end-to-end vendor strategy from selection and contract negotiations to performance optimization and long-term partnership development. You will work closely with Engineering, Security, Finance, Legal, Procurement, and Executive Leadership to ensure our vendors not only meet operational expectations but also actively contribute to our competitive advantage.

This is a highly visible role within a complex, fast-moving enterprise environment where decisions have global impact and long-term financial significance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Own and manage a portfolio of strategic technology vendors, including cloud service providers, AI vendors, cybersecurity partners, and enterprise software suppliers

• Lead vendor governance frameworks, including performance scorecards, quarterly business reviews (QBRs), risk assessments, and escalation management

• Drive commercial excellence, overseeing contract negotiations, renewals, pricing models, SLAs, and compliance with regulatory and security standards

• Partner with internal technology leaders to align vendor capabilities with roadmaps, architecture standards, and innovation initiatives

• Identify cost optimization opportunities while maintaining service quality, resilience, and scalability

• Proactively manage vendor risks, including financial stability, data privacy, operational continuity, and geopolitical exposure

• Serve as the primary escalation point for complex vendor issues impacting service delivery or business outcomes

• Lead cross-functional initiatives to consolidate vendors, rationalize spend, and improve operational efficiency

• Develop long-term partnership strategies that support growth, innovation, and market leadership

Job Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Information Systems, or a related field (MBA or advanced degree preferred)

• 10+ years of progressive experience in vendor management, strategic sourcing, or technology partnerships within large-scale organizations

• Demonstrated experience managing enterprise-level contracts valued in the tens or hundreds of millions

• Strong understanding of cloud services, SaaS models, and enterprise technology ecosystems

• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders without direct authority

• Experience working in regulated, security-conscious environments is strongly preferred

Personal Capabilities and Qualifications

• Strategic thinker with a strong commercial and operational mindset

• Exceptional negotiation and relationship-building skills

• High level of executive presence and communication clarity

• Data-driven decision maker with strong analytical skills

• Comfortable operating in ambiguity and fast-changing environments

• Ability to balance vendor advocacy with firm governance and accountability

• Naturally collaborative, yet confident in making tough, high-impact decisions

Strategic Support

In this role, you will directly support:

• Enterprise technology modernization and cloud transformation initiatives

• Long-term cost optimization and financial stewardship objectives

• Risk management, compliance, and security postures

• Innovation programs involving AI, automation, and next-generation platforms

• Executive leadership by providing insights, recommendations, and performance reporting related to vendor strategy

Working Conditions

• Hybrid work model with flexibility based on business needs

• Collaboration across global time zones and international partners

• Occasional travel for executive vendor meetings and strategic reviews

• Fast-paced, high-accountability environment with enterprise-scale impact

Job Function

• Vendor Management & Strategic Partnerships

• Technology Operations & Governance

• Contract Negotiation & Commercial Strategy

• Risk, Compliance & Performance Management

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation Package: $204,000 – $323,000 (base salary range, commensurate with experience and location)

In addition, we offer:

• Annual performance-based bonus

• Long-term incentive programs (equity or deferred compensation)

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Retirement savings plans with company contributions

• Generous paid time off and executive wellness programs

• Professional development and leadership training opportunities

Why Join Us

• Play a strategic leadership role within a global, technology-driven organization

• Influence decisions that shape our vendor ecosystem and long-term growth

• Work alongside senior executives and top-tier technology partners

• Be part of an organization investing heavily in cloud, AI, and digital innovation

• Competitive compensation aligned with the impact and scope of the role

• A culture that values accountability, excellence, and forward-thinking leadership