Director of Vendor Relations & Event Planner

Position Title: Director of Vendor Relationship Management and Events Planner
Location: Carmel, Indiana
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: VP, Franchising

Position Summary

The Director of Vendor Relationship Management and Events Planner plays a critical role in supporting and managing relationships with vendors to ensure high-quality service delivery. Additionally, this role is responsible for assisting in contract negotiations, as well as planning, coordinating, and executing company events that align with strategic goals and enhance team engagement and corporate image.

Key Responsibilities

• Vendor Relationship Management
• Assist in establishing, maintaining, and nurturing relationships with key vendors, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Support Sr. Leadership in contract negotiations by preparing vendor performance insights, conducting research, and identifying potential areas for improvement.
• Track vendor performance and address any concerns to help secure favorable terms and enhance service delivery.
• Develop strategies to optimize vendor performance, reduce costs, and improve quality and service consistency.
• Oversee and manage all aspects of vendor agreements, renewals, compliance requirements, and contract adherence, under the guidance of Sr. Leadership.
• Event Planner and Management
• Plan and execute corporate and franchise-level events, including our annual convention, twenty group meetings, industry events, training, team-building activities, client appreciation events, and other significant milestones.
• Manage event budgets, timelines, and logistics, including venue selection, catering, equipment, and transportation.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure events support organizational goals and create memorable experiences for attendees.
• Develop and implement post-event evaluation procedures to gauge success, gather feedback, and improve future event planning.
• Strategic Planning and Reporting
• Provide insights and recommendations to the executive team on vendor performance, emerging trends, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and monitor success metrics for vendor relationships and event outcomes.
• Prepare detailed reports for senior leadership on vendor performance, cost efficiency, and the impact of event initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Event Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in vendor management, events coordination, or a related field.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills to assist in contract negotiations and foster vendor relationships.
• Proven experience in event planning, project management, and cross-functional team coordination.
• Excellent organizational and analytical skills, with a high level of attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Competencies

• Leadership: Strong ability to assist and collaborate with cross-functional teams and foster productive vendor relationships.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze issues, identify alternative solutions, and support efficiency improvements.
• Detail-Oriented: Commitment to accuracy and thoroughness in all aspects of work, from assisting in contract negotiations to event logistics.