Senior Supplier Relationship Manager

OVERVIEW

The Senior Supplier Manager will play a pivotal role in overseeing vendor negotiations, contract execution, and ongoing relationship management within a new portfolio of supplier-managed business. This position is essential for ensuring strong governance, risk mitigation, compliance, and change management, while collaborating closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to optimize partnership outcomes and streamline operations.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in vendor management and negotiation, demonstrating exceptional communication and presentation skills. They will thrive in a collaborative environment, working effectively with a direct team of four and a broader team of seventy, while utilizing analytical and problem-solving skills to inform decision-making and drive business objectives.

Location: Toronto, ON (Hybrid)

Contract Length: 2 years, with possibility of conversion to FTE

Hours: 9am-5pm ET

Pay: $67 / IC: $77

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Act as a trusted advisor to assigned business/group, providing expert guidance on vendor arrangements and business processes.
• Participate in initiatives as a subject matter expert, influencing and negotiating to achieve business objectives.
• Identify emerging issues and trends to inform decision-making and assist in the development of strategic plans.
• Provide input to vendor management policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with best practices.
• Prepare quarterly management interpretation documents to communicate vendor performance and insights.
• Develop and manage vendor management programs, providing specialized support to resolve complex issues.
• Support the management and implementation of documentation, process controls, and knowledge assets required for program operations.
• Coordinate budgets and reporting to track actual results against budget expectations.
• Prepare financial reconciliations and attestation certificates as required.
• Review vendor management processes for effectiveness, recommending enhancements based on industry trends.
• Participate in the design, negotiation, and renewal of service level agreements (SLAs) and other contractual agreements.
• Manage supplier contracts in accordance with the organization's Outsourcing Model, ensuring compliance with standards.
• Oversee supplier invoice and billing activities, monitoring cost expectations and resolving billing issues.
• Validate, prepare, and test business continuity and disaster recovery plans for supplier arrangements.
• Educate and cross-train team members as required to promote knowledge sharing and collaboration.
• Build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment on priorities and objectives.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Expert verbal and written communication skills, with a proven ability to influence and negotiate effectively.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in vendor management or a related field.
• Deep knowledge and technical proficiency gained through extensive education and business experience.
• In-depth knowledge and experience in supporting vendor programs, with a focus on compliance and governance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Exceptional collaboration and team skills, fostering a cooperative work environment.
• Proficient presentation skills, capable of conveying complex information clearly and effectively.
• Ability to work independently and handle non-routine situations with sound judgment.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Experience with vendor management tools and platforms, such as Coupa.
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting.
• Familiarity with AI tools, such as Copilot, is a plus.

PREFERRED

• Postsecondary education, particularly in a relevant field.
• Previous experience in the financial industry, especially with former BMO.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or other non-merit factor. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees.