Independent Contractor, Supplier Management Partner

The Supplier Management Partner Independent Contractor is responsible for developing and executing strategic supplier relationships, ensuring optimal value delivery, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement across the supplier portfolio. This role serves as the primary liaison between the organization and key suppliers, negotiating contracts for the best value, driving collaborative partnerships that support business objectives and operational excellence at Vaniam Group.

A Day in the Life

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers and vendors
• Keep up to date data on suppliers and information, KPIs and SLAs,
• Lead supplier selection, evaluation, and onboarding processes
• Negotiate contracts, terms, and service level agreements to optimize value and minimize risk
• Conduct regular supplier performance reviews and scorecards
• Monitor supplier performance against established KPIs and contractual obligations
• Identify and mitigate supplier risks including financial, operational, and compliance risks
• Develop contingency plans and alternative supplier strategies
• Ensure suppliers maintain appropriate insurance, certifications, and regulatory compliance
• Track upcoming renewals and proactively contact business leaders to secure accurate and favorable terms and conditions
• Manage supplier agreements, amendments, and SOWs
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies and regulatory requirements
• Optimize total cost of ownership through strategic sourcing initiatives

Collaboration & Communication

• Partner with internal stakeholders including procurement, legal, finance, and operations teams
• Facilitate supplier business reviews and strategic planning sessions
• Communicate supplier performance and strategic initiatives to senior leadership
• Support cross-functional projects requiring supplier engagement

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Management, Finance, or related field
• 5-7 years of experience in life sciences, tech, supplier management, procurement, or vendor relations
• Experience managing complex supplier relationships and multi-million-dollar contracts

Skills and Competencies

• Strong negotiation and contract management skills
• Experience driving cost reduction
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Proficiency in procurement systems and supplier management tools
• Knowledge of supply chain risk management principles
• Understanding of regulatory compliance requirements
• Availability to work a minimum of 30 hours per week, during standard business hours (9-5pm in your time zone)

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and supplier management software
• Familiarity with e-sourcing and procurement platforms