Manager, Vendor Strategy and Performance

MDK, an innovative law firm, is seeking a strategic, results-oriented Manager of Vendor Strategy and Performance to lead vendor relationships, optimize operations, and ensure alignment with organizational goals. This role involves managing end-to-end vendor processes, negotiating contracts, and driving performance improvements through automation, cost savings, and workflow optimization.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Vendor Relationship Management:
  • Serve as the primary contact for all external vendors, ensuring seamless integration into firm operations.
  • Set clear expectations, best practices, and accountability frameworks to maintain productive relationships.
  • Monitor day-to-day vendor activities for consistency, reliability, and high service levels.
• Vendor Strategy & Development:
  • Evaluate new vendor opportunities based on cost, quality, and scalability.
  • Negotiate terms, pricing, and service agreements in collaboration with Operations and Compliance.
  • Identify and implement automation, cost-saving, and workflow optimization strategies to improve efficiency.
• Performance Oversight & Reporting:
  • Develop and maintain reports and dashboards to track vendor performance, KPIs, trends, and risks.
  • Analyze performance data and provide actionable insights to internal stakeholders and leadership.
  • Track and ensure accuracy of vendor invoicing, expenses, and costs.
• Compliance, Risk Management & Governance:
  • Ensure vendor compliance with contracts, regulations, and company policies.
  • Collaborate with Compliance to address legal or regulatory changes and adjust vendor strategies accordingly.
  • Develop exit strategies for underperforming vendors to minimize disruptions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Work with internal teams to align vendor efforts with business goals.
  • Coordinate vendor activities with various departments to ensure smooth operations and provide necessary training.
  • Lead regular vendor performance reviews to ensure expectations are met and identify areas for improvement.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, operations, supply chain management, or related field—or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5–7 years of experience in vendor management, purchasing, supply chain, or operations management positions.
• Proven ability to manage vendor relationships across multiple service areas or business units.
• Experience negotiating contracts and managing vendor performance, including KPIs and SLAs.
• Strong organizational, negotiation, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build effective relationships, both with internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Power BI or other reporting tools preferred.
• Comfortable developing and interpreting dashboards, KPIs, and performance metrics to drive decisions.
• Collaborative and proactive, with the ability to coordinate across teams and influence without authority.
• Familiarity with vendor platforms, contract lifecycle management, and operational tools (e.g., case management or workflow systems).

Schedule & Benefits:

Our team works Monday through Friday, general business hours. After a successful orientation period, we offer a hybrid schedule, which allows our employees flexibility to work from home and in the office. MDK provides a comprehensive benefit package, which includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability, as well as life insurance.
• 401(k) plan, with an employer contribution.
• Paid time off.

Additional perks:

• Paid time to volunteer in the community.
• Paid holidays.
• Casual dress code.
• The opportunity for career development and advancement.

Join MDK: Pioneering Uncommon Paths to Success

At MDK, we blend legal expertise with innovative technology to provide comprehensive legal and professional services. Since our inception in 2002, we've expanded our services to include residential mortgage, timeshare default services, a national bankruptcy practice, and title and closing services, reaching clients nationwide.

Our culture emphasizes support, well-being, and continuous growth. Through initiatives like our Culture Council and career development programs, we foster an environment where curiosity and collaboration thrive. We prioritize work-life balance with flexible hybrid work arrangements and a robust Volunteer Time Off program.

MDK has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work by Columbus Business First magazine and honored with the Best Law Firm designation by US News and World Report. Join us to explore your potential and contribute to our mission of creating uncommon paths to success.

Thank you for considering MDK as your next career destination. 

Click this link to learn more about our benefits: MDK Benefits

Learn more about MDK by visiting Attorneys & Professional Services | MDK (mdklegal.com) or visit us on LinkedIn or Instagram.

The Manley Law Firm LLC d/b/a MDK and affiliates are Equal Opportunity Employers. We have a no tolerance policy for discrimination at our workplace. We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to all applicants. We respect everyone from fair wages to equal opportunities for growth and movement here at MDK.