Vendor Analyst
Department: Operations
Classification: Exempt Position
Job Reports To: VP of Regulatory & Vendor Management
Location: Nashville, TN
The Vendor Analyst ensures that IRIS Networks effectively manages relationships and oversees costs associated with external suppliers and vendors; with a heavy emphasis on supporting the sales organization. This role includes cultivating and nurturing relationships to secure type II and off-net services for our end-user clients at the best possible rates, terms, and conditions. This position will become knowledgeable in IRIS’s business plans and contract terms and conditions. The following is a more detailed break-down of the responsibilities and qualifications for this role:
Role Overview:
A Vendor Analyst is responsible for evaluating, monitoring, and managing IRIS Networks’ cost and vendor performance directly related to off-net vendor obligations to deliver value to the organization. The Vendor Analyst will work directly with each member of the Sales Team and other organizations within IRIS Networks to ensure vendor relationships align with the company’s strategic goals.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, finance, or a related field.
• Experience within telecommunications in working with type II or off-net providers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with emphasis on Excel and Salesforce.
• Excellent communication skills, with trouble resolution and negotiation.
• Attention to detail and the ability to work independently.
Key Competencies:
• Vendor evaluation and selection
• Data analysis with Recommendations and reporting
• Relationship building and communication in and outside of IRIS Networks.
• Financial analysis and budgeting
Key Responsibilities:
- Quote Desk and Vendor Selection:
• Identify type II vendors and pricing meeting the best fit for the customer applications brought into IRIS Networks by the sales organization.
• Maintain current and work to expand on vendor coverage and pricing information in designated databases for quoting and provisioning automation (e.g., connectbase and Vision).
• Work with Sales, Engineering, and Operations to secure new vendors for a specific product, project, or location based on the demands of the sales organization.
• Collaborate with Sales, Engineering, Operations, and Service Delivery teams to evaluate customer proposals and select suitable suppliers when more than one supplier can satisfy a customer or network need. - Cost Analysis:
• Analyze and implement strategies and plans working with vendors and product information to increase gross margin to meet or exceed corporate objectives. Track cost saving opportunities and create economic metrics for leased services.
• Analyze vendor rate changes from monthly billing or notifications and note opportunities to lower costs due to term renewals, new vendor migrations, or negotiating rates based on market conditions.
• Make justifiable recommendations for services coming out of term when initial or subsequent terms expire.
• Implement cost-effective strategies to optimize vendor expenditures. - Vendor Performance Monitoring:
• Assess vendor performance and provide feedback to vendors regularly, especially regarding service outages and unavailability of service. - Vendor Relationship Management:
• Foster positive relationships with key vendors to facilitate effective communication, favorable quoting, service delivery, and issue resolution.
• Act as a liaison between IRIS and its vendors. - Reporting and Documentation:
• Prepare weekly reports on vendor engagement activities, including the status of open action items, vendor performance, cost analysis, and contract status.
• Maintain a shared and easily accessible repository of Vendor Contact Information, Escalation Listings, and Portal Access, where available. Update lists twice annually and test portal access quarterly.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to vendor interactions.
Join us in shaping the future of telecommunications!
The Vendor Analyst is pivotal in optimizing vendor relationships and controlling costs, ultimately contributing to IRIS Networks’ overall success. Please submit your resume detailing your relevant experience and a cover letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for this position to hr@irisnetworksusa.com.?
Iris Networks is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.?
