Major Duties Classification: Exempt / Non-Bargaining Position may be located remote. #LI-Remote Join a team that offers growth potential, competitive compensation, an excellent benefits package and the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of customers and communities. Consolidated Communications is a best-in-class, top 10 U.S. fiber provider that delivers reliable fiber communications solutions to consumers and businesses. We are committed to providing meaningful work in a positive environment while connecting people and enriching how they work and live. At Consolidated, our employees make the difference. We welcome and value individuals from different cultures, with diverse life and work experiences and educational backgrounds. Responsible for strategic sourcing, contract management, and vendor relationship management. This role involves managing vendor relationships, managing service level agreements and key performance indications, and ensuring the acquisition of high-quality services at the best total value proposition. The Vendor Relations Manager will work with key stakeholders in Sales, Product, Service Delivery, Engineering, Business Development and other areas to understand the needs of the business and execute a strategy that aligns with the overall objectives of the department and company. Responsibilities Manage complete relationships with assigned Access Vendors Measure and track key vendor metrics and responsibilities, provide feedback in Vendor performance reviews and address any chronic performance issues Evaluate potential new Vendors based on serviceability, quality, cost, terms, service and references; support RFPs and evaluate new products and services from existing Vendors Negotiate terms and conditions with vendors to secure favorable contractual terms and conditions. Understand Vendor's networks, services, strengths/weaknesses, processes, pricing and promotions; know how to navigate vendor portals, Vendor key personnel and escalation paths On-board new Vendors and ensure smooth transition with internal departments such as Accounts Payable, Tax/Finance, Product, Pricing, and Service Delivery Stay current on industry trends, customer applications and use cases, technology migrations, regulatory changes, merger/acquisition activities, Vendor financial health, and best practices Manage existing inventory with assigned Vendors; track circuit term expirations to avoid rate increases; evaluate for re-terms at cost savings Understand early termination liabilities and any Portability or contractual revenue replacement options to avoid such liabilities Develop and implement cost-saving initiatives such as NNI upgrades, NNI utilization, technology changes, vendor changes, term management; Deliver annual savings in alignment with performance targets and objectives Understand competitive pricing by service type and region in order to effectively negotiate and provide feedback to vendors Understand legal requirements of assigned Vendor Agreements and ensure compliance, identify risks and mitigate Drive continuous improvement in all aspects relating to the Vendor's pricing, process and performance Manage escalations from internal customers such as Service Delivery, NOC/Repair, and Deal Desk Support Access Finance team as needed with invoice validation, evaluate contracts and assist with identification of disputes and dispute negotiations and resolutions Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field 10 years of experience in Telecommunications and experience in Vendor Relations, Procurement or Supply Chain management is desired Strong negotiations skills necessary to seek appropriate cost, quality, delivery and terms Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with proficiency in data analysis tools and te