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Vendor Manager Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Sparkfund

Senior Manager, Vendor Management

Minneapolis, MN · On-site +1

$170K - $203K/yr

Senior Manager, Vendor Management Location: Minneapolis, MN (Hybrid) Department: Projects Reports To: VP, Engineering & Project Operations Help Build the Vendor Network That Powers Project Delivery ...

BBQ Holdings

IT Vendor Management Lead

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

MTY is seeking an experienced IT Vendor Management Lead to develop and lead strategic sourcing, vendor management, and cost optimization across the IT department. This role will serve as the subject ...

BBQ Holdings

IT Vendor Management Lead

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

MTY is seeking an experienced IT Vendor Management Lead to develop and lead strategic sourcing, vendor management, and cost optimization across the IT department. This role will serve as the subject ...

First American

$112K - $149K/yr

What We Do The Vendor Relationship Manager is responsible for developing, managing, and optimizing a network of vendor providers that support business operations and strategic initiatives. This role ...

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All JobsVendor JobsVendor Manager JobsVendor Manager Jobs in Minnesota

Vendor Manager information

See Minnesota salary details

$36.2K

$97.6K

$169.9K

How much do vendor manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for vendor manager in Minnesota is $97,570.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $111,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vendor manager?

A vendor manager orders products from various suppliers. Their job duties include selecting different services, negotiating contracts, and evaluating performance. They also manage relationships with different vendors, keep accurate documentation, resolve problems and issues, and streamline these processes. This career requires problem-solving and creative thinking skills. Additional qualifications may include prior work experience and a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.

What does a vendor manager do?

A Vendor Manager is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with the suppliers and vendors that provide goods or services to a company. They negotiate contracts, monitor vendor performance, ensure compliance with company standards, and resolve any issues that arise. Vendor Managers work to optimize costs, improve quality, and maintain a reliable supply chain for their organization. Their role is critical in ensuring that the company receives the best value and service from its vendors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vendor manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vendor Manager, you need strong negotiation, contract management, and supply chain knowledge, typically backed by a bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software, ERP systems (like SAP or Oracle), and vendor performance tracking tools is essential. Exceptional relationship-building, problem-solving, and communication skills help you navigate complex vendor interactions and resolve issues efficiently. These skills are crucial for optimizing vendor relationships, ensuring cost-effectiveness, and maintaining reliable supply chains.

What are some common challenges vendor managers face when coordinating with multiple suppliers?

Vendor Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning supplier timelines with company needs, managing communication across different time zones, and ensuring consistent quality and compliance from diverse vendors. Balancing cost-effectiveness with reliability can also be demanding, as unexpected delays or supply chain disruptions require quick problem-solving. Building strong relationships and maintaining clear, regular communication with suppliers are key strategies to overcome these challenges and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Vendor Manager vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectVendor ManagerProcurement Specialist
Primary FocusManaging vendor relationships and negotiationsSourcing and purchasing goods/services
Required CredentialsExperience in vendor management, negotiation skillsProcurement certifications, purchasing experience
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with vendors and internal teamsWorks with suppliers, procurement teams, and stakeholders
Industry UsageCommon in supply chain, IT, manufacturingCommon across various industries requiring purchasing

While both roles involve working with external suppliers, a Vendor Manager primarily focuses on maintaining and optimizing vendor relationships, whereas a Procurement Specialist concentrates on sourcing and purchasing goods or services. The Vendor Manager role emphasizes relationship management and negotiation, while the Procurement Specialist emphasizes procurement processes and cost savings.

How much does a vendor manager earn?

A vendor manager's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually. Senior vendor managers or those in high-demand sectors can earn higher compensation, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits. Strong negotiation skills and vendor relationship management are key to higher earning potential.

What is the average salary for a vendor manager?

The average salary for a vendor manager in the US is approximately $85,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience, industry, and location. Professionals with certifications or extensive negotiation skills may earn higher salaries, and the role often requires strong vendor relationship management and contract negotiation skills.

What is the salary of a vendor manager?

The salary of a vendor manager typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior vendor managers or those in high-demand sectors may earn higher compensation, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.
More about Vendor Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Vendor jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Vendor jobs in Minnesota are:

What job categories do people searching Vendor Manager jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Vendor Manager jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Vendor Manager jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Vendor Manager job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Vendor Manager jobs in MN?

For Vendor Manager jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Vendor Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vendor Manager job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,570 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Senior Manager, Vendor Management

Sparkfund

Minneapolis, MN • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

About Sparkfund

Sparkfund is the utility services company unlocking capacity on the grid. Through its Distributed Capacity Procurement (DCP) model, Sparkfund enables utilities, energy majors, and large-load customers to deploy front-of-the-meter batteries and gensets as distribution infrastructure. By adding targeted capacity exactly where and when the grid needs it most, DCP helps meet demand, support reliability, and put downward pressure on rates. Sparkfund supports program design, grid value assessment, asset host engagement, and value chain management to ensure on-time, on-budget deployment with maximum system value and lowest cost.

With more than 3,200 projects deployed across 43 states and more than 300MW of energized assets constructed, Sparkfund is transforming customer-sited assets into a valuable portfolio resource for the benefit of our society. To learn more about Sparkfund, visit sparkfund.com.

Senior Manager, Vendor Management

Location: Minneapolis, MN (Hybrid)
Department: Projects
Reports To: VP, Engineering & Project Operations

Help Build the Vendor Network That Powers Project Delivery

At Sparkfund, we're transforming how energy infrastructure projects are delivered. As we continue to grow, we're looking for a Senior Manager of Vendor Management to lead the relationships, processes, and strategy that ensure our vendor ecosystem can scale alongside the business.

This is more than a procurement role. You'll oversee a portfolio of vendor relationships that directly support project execution across the country, helping Sparkfund deliver high-quality outcomes while balancing performance, cost, and risk. You'll lead a team, influence cross-functional decision-making, and play a key role in building the systems and partnerships that enable long-term growth.

If you enjoy developing teams, solving operational challenges, negotiating strategic partnerships, and creating scalable processes, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll DoLead Vendor Strategy & Performance

  • Manage a portfolio of vendor relationships supporting Sparkfund's project delivery operations.

  • Execute vendor selection, qualification, and performance management processes.

  • Lead vendor scorecards, business reviews, and performance improvement initiatives.

  • Support commercial negotiations and vendor relationship management activities.

  • Maintain and optimize Sparkfund's approved vendor network.

Drive Supply Chain Reliability

  • Monitor vendor performance, capacity, geographic coverage, and operational readiness.

  • Identify and mitigate supply chain risks that could impact project delivery.

  • Develop contingency plans for critical vendor dependencies.

  • Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure vendor capabilities align with project needs.

Lead and Develop a Team

  • Manage and coach a team of Vendor Management professionals.

  • Establish priorities, performance expectations, and development plans.

  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

  • Support workforce planning and team capability development as the function grows.

Partner Across the Business

  • Collaborate with Engineering, Delivery, Contract Management, and Finance teams.

  • Align vendor activities with project and program objectives.

  • Support operational planning and execution through effective vendor engagement.

  • Serve as a trusted advisor on vendor performance, risk, and commercial considerations.

What We're Looking ForRequired Qualifications

  • 8+ years of experience in vendor management, procurement, supply chain, or related functions.

  • Experience managing vendor portfolios in project-based, construction, infrastructure, or operational environments.

  • Strong negotiation, commercial, and relationship management skills.

  • Experience leading vendor performance programs and governance processes.

  • Demonstrated people leadership experience, including coaching and team development.

  • Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make informed business decisions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in energy, utilities, infrastructure, distributed energy resources (DER), or related industries.

  • Experience managing EPC firms, subcontractors, or field service vendors.

  • Familiarity with vendor management platforms, procurement systems, and performance tracking tools.

  • Experience scaling vendor operations within a growing organization.

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role

  • Thinks strategically about vendor relationships, not just individual transactions.

  • Balances cost, performance, quality, and risk when making decisions.

  • Builds strong partnerships across teams and with external stakeholders.

  • Creates structure and process while remaining adaptable in a growing environment.

  • Develops people and builds high-performing teams.

  • Takes ownership and drives results.

Why Sparkfund?

At Sparkfund, you'll join a mission-driven organization helping customers deploy and manage critical energy infrastructure solutions. We're a remote-first company that values flexibility, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Benefits & Perks

  • Competitive compensation of $170,000 - $203,000 base salary. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, location, and market considerations.

  • Employer-subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • 401(k) with employer match

  • Flexible vacation policy

  • 12 weeks of paid parental leave

  • Monthly phone and internet stipend

  • Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're excited about building scalable vendor partnerships, leading teams, and helping shape the future of project delivery, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help power what's next at Sparkfund.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Sparkfund is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Sparkfund also provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs or practices, in all phases of the hiring process and throughout employment. If you need an accommodation, please let us know.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties, responsibilities, and requirements may change at any time based on business needs. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds and experiences to apply — even if you do not meet every listed qualification — as skills and competencies can develop in different ways.