Vendor Sourcing Specialist - job 1 of 2

As a Vendor Sourcing Specialist at Lessen, you will be responsible for sourcing, qualifying, and contracting vendors for our Exteriors department. This includes negotiating service terms, managing vendor relationships, ensuring compliance with insurance requirements, and onboarding new client accounts. Your role is pivotal in maintaining operational effectiveness and enhancing service delivery.

To be considered for the Vendor Sourcing Specialist role at Lessen, candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree or relevant experience. High-level skills in Microsoft Excel and Word are essential, along with 3-5 years of customer service or related experience. Experience in facilities, supply chain, or procurement is preferred, making this role ideal for those with expertise in vendor management.

Lessen is committed to continuous learning and supports the professional development of its Vendor Sourcing Specialists through various training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. You will gain hands-on experience while collaborating with seasoned professionals, which will enhance your skills and career growth.

The Vendor Sourcing Specialist position at Lessen offers a hybrid work model where you will work from our Scottsdale office on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, while enjoying the flexibility to work remotely on Wednesdays and Fridays. This approach promotes collaboration while allowing for a work-life balance.

In the role of Vendor Sourcing Specialist at Lessen, you'll primarily utilize Microsoft Excel and Word to manage vendor data, contracts, and communication. Additionally, you'll likely engage with project management and collaboration software to streamline vendor onboarding and relationship management.

When approaching vendor sourcing, I begin by researching potential vendors that align with our service needs. I evaluate their performance, pricing, and compliance with regulations. Effective communication and relationship-building help in establishing trust and ensuring that the vendor can meet our requirements.

In my previous role, I negotiated terms with a vendor by first understanding their pricing structure. I presented a case showing how a long-term partnership could benefit both sides, leading to a favorable agreement that lowered costs while maintaining quality services.

To maintain strong vendor relationships, I prioritize open communication, regular check-ins, and feedback loops. I find that establishing a framework for collaboration fosters trust and effectiveness, which is key to achieving mutual goals.

I ensure compliance by thoroughly reviewing all contract terms and conditions with each vendor to ensure they meet company requirements. Regular audits and performance reviews with vendors also help monitor adherence to contractual obligations.

When faced with underperforming vendors, I first analyze the root causes of their performance issues. I address these concerns directly, providing an opportunity for improvement, while also keeping leadership informed. If no progress is made, I consider other alternatives or termination.

Analytics plays a crucial role in identifying vendor performance metrics, opportunities for cost savings, and areas for improvement. By using data to inform decisions, I can optimize vendor relationships and drive overall operational efficiency.

To prioritize onboarding tasks, I create a structured timeline that outlines essential steps, from contract signing to training. This helps me ensure that deadlines are met and that the vendor is fully equipped to deliver services efficiently from the start.

I once encountered a critical issue with a vendor that affected service delivery. I gathered data on the situation, proposed potential solutions, and presented this information to leadership, ensuring they had a clear overview to make informed decisions.

Post-onboarding, I evaluate vendor effectiveness through performance metrics, customer feedback, and service quality. Regular reviews help in understanding their strengths and weaknesses, guiding necessary adjustments for continuous improvement.

I have several years of experience in contract negotiation and management, where I focus on creating favorable terms while ensuring compliance. My proactive approach and thorough analysis of both the company's and vendor's needs allow me to reach mutually beneficial agreements.