We are looking for an enthusiastic, and well-organized individual to join our team in the role of Supply Chain Vendor Manager. Operating in a matrix organization, role is reporting to Global Procurement/Supply Chain and Program Delivery Office (PDO) functions and is responsible for oversight and management of the contractual agreements for the acquisition of technically complex or commercially risky goods and services with various vendors in support of the Telesat Lightspeed program, Telesat’s state-of-the-art network of highly advanced satellites in low earth orbit that will seamlessly integrate with terrestrial networks. The mandate entails providing supplier oversight from execution to closeout and maintaining an integrated approach for the program requirements in terms of contractual obligations, schedule and performance.
You will work on complex problems where analysis of situation requires in-depth evaluation of contractual obligations and business requirements and will need to make recommendations and decisions based on experience.
The ideal candidate has extensive experience in contract management and supply chain, and exemplifies and consistently demonstrates core competencies of effective communication, innovation, change management, relationship building, and leadership.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
- Vendor Relations: Develop and maintain strong relationships with the subcontractor, ensuring clear communication and effective collaboration. Act as the primary focal point for continuing supplier management activities. Own supply chain management functions for the assigned vendors.
- Supplier Monitoring: Track and evaluate subcontractor performance, addressing any issues or concerns promptly. Emphasize scheduling efforts to achieve milestones. Monitor and control subcontract costs, ensuring projects are completed within budget. Analyze and interpret supplier obligations and confirm that they are adequately discharged.
- Contract Management: Ensure supplier contract adherence, including the negotiation of change order, commercial claims, and invoicing. Maintain accurate, complete and up-to-date records of the vendor contractual commitments including contracts, amendments, and correspondence.
- Compliance: Develop and maintain a thorough understanding of corporate policies and purchasing processes in order to mitigate potential risks to Telesat in connection with vendor management. Ensure all supplier activities comply with company policies, legal requirements, and industry standards.
- Risk Management: Collaborate on identifying and communicating risks associated with vendor activities, including financial, legal, and performance risks. Recommend mitigation strategies such that appropriate decisions are made. Use initiative and sound judgment in adapting procedures to identify and address unusual situations or issues, and develop creative solutions to resolve highly complex problems.
- Team Collaboration: Communicate and work closely with Telesat cross-functional teams so they are aware of all supplier obligations and to ensure seamless integration of vendor activities into the overall project plans. Act as a liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers to resolve issues and align expectations. Support Engineering and Project Management to ensure supplier’s technical and programmatic performance in support of Program objectives.
- Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce costs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements.
- Collaborate with Legal department to draft and implement all contract templates including purchase agreements, amendments, renewals, Statements of Work, framework agreements, licensing agreements, consulting service agreements, non-disclosure agreements, general terms, correspondence and terminations.
- Other duties as assigned by the Senior Manager, Purchasing and Supply Chain
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
- Bachelors or higher level university degree in a relevant discipline such as Commerce, Finance, or Engineering
- 5+ years experience working in supply chain or procurement, ideally in complex technology-based environment with long-term programs with multiple supplier contracts
- A professional designation in Procurement (e.g., CSCMP) is desirable but not mandatory
- Experience in the planning, developing, and maintaining of contract processes, contract drafting and negotiations
ASSETS FOR THIS ROLE
- Excellent interpersonal and relationship building skills;
- Proven ability to communicate effectively (oral & written) and collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders at all levels within the organization;
- Strong knowledge of purchasing ethics, practices, and policies;
- Knowledge of legal terminology and interpretation of contracts is considered an asset.
- Ability to think critically, solve problems and resolve issues.
- Capacity to manage time in a fast-paced environment with occasionally overlapping priorities to meet or exceed requirements and expectations.
- Detail oriented, highly motivated and results-focused with a sense of urgency.
- Able to work independently as well as operate within a team
- Bilingual in English and French an asset (but not required).
