Supplier Relations Specialist

Overview The Supplier Relations Specialist plays a critical role within the Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) division. This position supports external partner relationships and ensures contractual obligations, service expectations, and operational needs are met. The role coordinates communication with service providers, tracks performance outcomes, assists with contract administration, and collaborates with internal SEM departments to maintain efficient service delivery. The role focuses on strengthening supplier partnerships, monitoring service quality, ensuring compliance, and aligning services with SEM's operational and strategic goals. Responsibilities Lead the end-to-end supplier selection process, including market research, identification of potential suppliers, development and issuance of RFPs/RFQs/RFIs, evaluation of proposals, and recommendation of solutions that meet SEM's operational needs and budget guidelines. Support negotiation of contracts, service agreements, and pricing structures, while maintaining a centralized repository of all contracts, tracking renewal timelines, amendments, and ensuring compliance with terms and organizational requirements. Build and maintain strong relationships with key service providers, identify opportunities for strategic partnerships, facilitate issue resolution, and mitigate risks associated with external partnerships. Collaborate on the development and execution of strategic sourcing, optimization, and budget support; monitor industry trends, analyze pricing and supplier capabilities, and assist with budget planning and expenditure tracking for external services. Establish KPIs and service metrics, conduct regular performance reviews and audits, prepare performance reports, and serve as a liaison between SEM departments and suppliers to ensure services support enrollment and operational goals. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Communications, or related field. Minimum of 2 years of experience in procurement, vendor management, contract coordination, or related area. Experience in supplier sourcing, contract negotiation support, or performance analysis preferred. Degree Equivalency Clause: Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree. Senate Bill 1310 – The Florida Senate: guidance on substitution of work experience for postsecondary education requirements; public employer policies apply as described in the SB 1310 details. Minimum Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310. About Us With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We strive to cultivate a talented, engaged workforce and support professional development. USF offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, retirement, tuition programs, leave, and employee discounts. Compliance and Equal Opportunity The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate based on protected characteristics. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. A job description does not constitute a contract. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of South Florida