1

Vendor Program Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

As the Senior Program Manager, Strategic Programs, you will lead enterprisescale digital ... Serve as the primary point of contact for thirdparty vendors and external partners. * Provide ...

Posted today

GCP Program Manager

Chicago, IL · Remote

$76 - $86/hr

The Program Manager will lead the overall strategy, governance, execution, and adoption efforts for ... vendor relationships, resource planning, and financial governance • Coordinating large ...

As an Agile Program Manager for Managed Services, you will own a portfolio of strategic and ... Coordinate with ITSM Administrators, Application Developers, Platform Engineers, and vendor ...

AI Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$54.09 - $64.09/hr

Track budgets, vendor engagement, and resourcing; maintain accurate status and forecast reports ... managing multi-team programs with clear outcomes in regulated environments Strong Agile expertise ...

New

As an Agile Program Manager for Managed Services, you will own a portfolio of strategic and ... Coordinate with ITSM Administrators, Application Developers, Platform Engineers, and vendor ...

The Electrical Program Manager maintains and coordinates the operations and repairs for all ... Vendor Management. Client Relations: * Responsible for ensuring high customer and employee ...

Lead Technical Program Manager

Chicago, IL

$132K - $172K/yr

As a Lead Technical Program Manager in Commercial & Investment Bank's Payments Technology ... Advanced experience in utilizing technical fluency, including knowledge of vendor products and ...

Lead Technical Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

As a Lead Technical Program Manager in Commercial & Investment Bank's Payments Technology ... Advanced experience in utilizing technical fluency, including knowledge of vendor products and ...

Senior Program Manager -Technology

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

Lead and manage multiple programs and projects within the AI Tools and Agent Development workstreams, collaborating with cross-functional teams, business partners, and technology vendors * Serve as ...

Showing results 41-60

Vendor Program Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$35.9K

$96.5K

$168.1K

How much do vendor program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for vendor program manager in Illinois is $96,535.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a vendor program manager do?

A vendor program manager oversees relationships with external suppliers and service providers, ensuring that vendor contracts, performance, and compliance meet organizational standards. They coordinate vendor onboarding, monitor service delivery, and optimize vendor performance using tools like vendor management systems, often requiring strong negotiation and project management skills.

How does a vendor program manager collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure vendor performance aligns with organizational goals?

A Vendor Program Manager works closely with internal teams such as procurement, operations, legal, and finance to align vendor services with the company’s objectives. Regular cross-functional meetings, clear communication of expectations, and performance reviews are essential parts of this collaboration. The role often requires mediating between vendor capabilities and internal requirements, ensuring that service levels, compliance, and cost-effectiveness are consistently met. This collaborative approach helps drive continuous improvement and maximizes the value derived from vendor relationships.

What is the difference between Vendor Program Manager vs Vendor Account Manager?

AspectVendor Program ManagerVendor Account Manager
Primary FocusOverseeing vendor programs, strategy, and process improvementsManaging relationships and sales with individual vendor accounts
ResponsibilitiesDeveloping vendor programs, ensuring compliance, optimizing vendor performanceBuilding client relationships, negotiating contracts, driving account growth
Work EnvironmentCross-functional teams, strategic planning, vendor managementCustomer-facing, sales-oriented, relationship management
Required SkillsVendor management, project coordination, communicationSales skills, negotiation, customer service

The Vendor Program Manager focuses on developing and managing vendor programs and processes, while the Vendor Account Manager concentrates on maintaining and growing relationships with individual vendors or clients. Both roles require strong communication skills but differ in strategic versus relationship-driven responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Vendor Program Manager, you need expertise in vendor relationship management, contract negotiation, and supply chain processes, often supported by a degree in business, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software, ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, and relevant certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help build trust and ensure alignment between vendors and internal teams. These skills are critical to maintain cost efficiency, mitigate risks, and ensure reliable delivery of goods and services within an organization.

What is a vendor program manager?

A Vendor Program Manager is responsible for overseeing relationships and programs with third-party suppliers or vendors to ensure that goods and services are delivered on time, within budget, and according to quality standards. They coordinate vendor selection, negotiate contracts, monitor performance, and resolve any issues that arise. Their role is crucial in optimizing vendor performance, reducing costs, and maintaining strong partnerships to support the organization's strategic goals.

How much do vendor program managers make in the US?

Vendor Program Managers in the US typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Senior roles or those in high-cost areas may offer higher compensation, often including bonuses and benefits.

Is a vendor program manager a good job?

A vendor program manager oversees relationships and contracts with external suppliers, ensuring that vendor services meet organizational needs. The role typically requires strong project management, negotiation skills, and knowledge of procurement processes, and it can offer opportunities for career advancement and competitive compensation. Job satisfaction depends on the organization, industry, and individual preferences for managing external partnerships.
What are popular job titles related to Vendor Program Manager jobs in Illinois? For Vendor Program Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vendor Program Manager jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Vendor Program Manager jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Vendor Program Manager jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Vendor Program Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Vendor Program Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,535 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Senior Program Manager

Abbott

Chicago, IL • On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 16 hours ago

Posted today


Abbott rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

178th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.JOB DESCRIPTION:

About Abbott

Abbott is a global healthcare leader, creating breakthrough science to improve people's health. We're always looking towards the future, anticipating changes in medical science and technology.

Working at Abbott

At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and family, be your true self and live a full life. You'll also have access to:

  • Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of.
  • Free medical coverage for employees* via the Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO
  • An excellent retirement savings plan with high employer contribution
  • Tuition reimbursement, theFreedom 2 Save student debt program andFreeU education benefit - an affordable and convenient path to getting a bachelor's degree.
  • A company recognized as a great place to work in dozens of countries around the world and named one of the most admired companies in the world by Fortune.
  • A company that is recognized as one of the best big companies to work for as well as a best place to work for diversity, working mothers, female executives, and scientists.

The Opportunity

This role is based in our Lake County or downtown Chicago locations within Digital Technology Services (DTS).

We are seeking a proven program leader with a track record of delivering complex, global technology initiatives who is comfortable operating in ambiguous, fastmoving environments.

As the Senior Program Manager, Strategic Programs, you will lead enterprisescale digital, cybersecurity and AI programs that matter. You will drive execution across modern software development efforts, reduce technical debt, and deliver measurable outcomes within a highly regulated, global environment. You will partner closely with senior business and technology leaders and manage critical stakeholders.

This role is wellsuited for a leader with strong program fundamentals and sharp attention to detail.

What You'll Work On

  • Plan, execute, and manage all aspects of digital programs, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, control, and closure.
  • Lead project planning, scheduling, tracking, risk management, and status reporting.
  • Ensure program compliance with all internal procedures and applicable external regulations.
  • Drive resolution through effective crossfunctional problem solving, communication, and integration.
  • Partner with Project Owners, functional leaders, and management to prioritize work across programs, balancing resource availability, timelines, deliverables, and business priorities.
  • Demonstrate agility and flexibility in a fastpaced environment while meeting aggressive program schedules.
  • Champion PMO best practices to strengthen project planning, execution, prioritization, governance, and change management within Digital Programs.
  • Facilitate Program Review meetings with stakeholders and provide clear, regular executivelevel updates.
  • Analyze complex business problems, develop alternative solutions, and support leadership in selecting and executing longterm action plans.
  • Anticipate future risks and challenges, resolve current issues, and continuously improve based on lessons learned and prior program outcomes.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for thirdparty vendors and external partners.
  • Provide leadership on strategic business initiatives, driving crossfunctional teams to achieve agreedupon milestones and deliverables.
  • Maintain accountability for total program scope, budget, timelines, and outcomes, ensuring effective resource utilization across direct and matrixed teams.
  • Engage with senior leadership to align program strategies and key decisions.
  • Prepare and deliver clear, compelling written and verbal communications for diverse internal and external audiences, tailoring content and style as appropriate

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, Business, or a related discipline.
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience managing global cross functional programs.
  • Demonstrated expertise with project and program management tools, methodologies, and governance processes.
  • Experience working in FDAregulated environments (e.g., validated software supporting medical, pharmaceutical, or life sciences products) and PCIregulated environments.
  • Proven track record of delivering highquality, complex programs successfully.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with AI, cybersecurity and infrastructure is highly preferred.
  • Strong technical background in crossfunctional program management with demonstrated people leadership, including hiring, onboarding, coaching, performance management, and career development.
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to influence, negotiate, and align stakeholders at all organizational levels.
  • Working knowledge of modern software development methodologies (Agile/Scrum, Kanban, SAFe) and tools such as JIRA and Confluence.
  • Demonstrated leadership capabilities with experience building, leading, and developing highperforming teams, including setting clear expectations, providing regular feedback, and supporting growth through mentoring and stretch opportunities.
  • Excellent communication skills, including executivelevel presence demonstrated through clear, concise, and confident engagement with senior leaders; strong executive presentations, facilitation, negotiation, decisionmaking, and problem solving; and the ability to synthesize complex information, influence outcomes, and translate strategy into clear direction for teams.

Misc: This is an onsite role at Abbott locations in IL This is not a remote role/opportunity.

Apply Now

Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com

Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to employee diversity.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott and on Twitter @AbbottNews and @AbbottGlobal.

The base pay for this position is

$129,300.00 - $258,700.00

In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.

JOB FAMILY:IT Business Relationship ManagementDIVISION:BTS Business Technology ServicesLOCATION:United States > Waukegan : J46ADDITIONAL LOCATIONS:United States > Chicago : Willis Tower Building 233 S Wacker Dr.WORK SHIFT:StandardTRAVEL:Yes, 15 % of the TimeMEDICAL SURVEILLANCE:Not ApplicableSIGNIFICANT WORK ACTIVITIES:Continuous sitting for prolonged periods (more than 2 consecutive hours in an 8 hour day), Keyboard use (greater or equal to 50% of the workday)Abbott is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Women/Individuals with Disabilities/Protected Veterans.EEO is the Law link - English: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_English.pdfEEO is the Law link - Espanol: http://webstorage.abbott.com/common/External/EEO_Spanish.pdf

What Abbott employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom