Supplier Manager

The Supplier Manager is responsible for managing and maintaining assigned product lines, leading supplier relationships, and overseeing product-level details and recommendations. This role involves collaborating closely with the Merchandising Team on product development, managing supplier programs to maximize value, and driving SKU rationalization efforts. The Supplier Manager will analyze product line performance, work closely with Technical Managers to engage suppliers on product specifications and technical support, and define and manage core supplier relationships, including product pricing and cost changes. $78,000-$88,000/yearly Primary Duties and Responsibilities Key Responsibilities: Supplier Relationship Management: • Lead and maintain relationships with suppliers, serving as the primary point of contact. • Define and manage core supplier partnerships, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives. • Negotiate pricing, terms, and program agreements to decrease cost and maximize value for the company and its customers. Product Line and SKU Management: • Manage and maintain assigned product lines, ensuring optimal performance and alignment with customer needs. • Serve as the subject matter expert on product (SKU) details, providing recommendations for improvements or adjustments. • Lead SKU rationalization to optimize product line performance which includes line extensions, consolidations, deletions, and stocking status decisions. Collaboration and Development: • Collaborate with the Merchandising Team on product development initiatives, contributing supplier insights and product expertise to develop competitive offerings, market demand, industry trends • Provide insight and communication into internal factors which 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 ensure supplier programs and product strategies align with broader company objectives. Program and Performance Management: • Manage supplier programs, including rebates, co-op funding, and promotional initiatives, to create maximum value. • Analyze product line performance, including sales, margin, and market trends, to identify opportunities for improvement. • Develop and execute plans to address underperforming products or categories. Pricing and Cost Management: • Define and manage product pricing strategies and cost changes in collaboration with suppliers. • Monitor market conditions and competitor pricing to ensure competitive positioning. • Communicate pricing updates and cost changes to internal stakeholders in a timely and effective manner. Qualifications: Education: • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, or a related field. Relevant experience may substitute for formal education. Experience: • Minimum of 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. Skills and Competencies: • Strong supplier relationship and negotiation skills with conceptual and practical expertise in own area and general knowledge of related areas.  Aware of the competition and the factors that differentiate the company in the market. • Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret sales data, market trends, and supplier performance metrics. • Expertise in product line analysis and SKU rationalization. • Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence internal and external stakeholders. Explains complex, difficult and/or sensitive information; works to build consensus. • Collaborative and proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making. • Demonstrated ability to grow sales of product lines and projects under your responsibility • Must be able to track the success of your initiatives. Be prepared to bring examples of past success to the interview • Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective using existing solutions. Works independently, receives minimal guidance. • Acts as a resource for other team members; may lead projects with limited risks and resource requirements. • Ability to look at the big picture and execute the small details • Ability to independently prioritize, manage multiple projects and work well in a fast-paced environment • Duties will frequently change, and the successful candidate must be flexible and willing to take on new responsibilities and learn new things • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced skills in Excel; familiarity with ERP or product management systems is a plus. Working Conditions: • Remote/Hybrid with occasional travel to supplier locations, industry events, or company branches. • Flexibility to work extended hours during product launches or major initiatives. Qualifications/ Skills Benefits (Full-Time Employees): • Health/Vision/Dental insurance. • Paid vacation. • Paid holidays. • 401(k) with employer matching. • Life insurance is provided.