Lead, Vendor Management

Description

As the Vendor Management Lead, you will serve as the strategic point of contact for all supplier-related activities within the Benefits Accounts business. This role is pivotal in ensuring that vendor relationships are effectively managed, performance standards are met, and compliance with internal and external regulations is maintained. You will collaborate cross-functionally with teams such as Information Security, Legal, Data Privacy, and Procurement to ensure seamless vendor operations and risk mitigation.

• Vendor Relationship Management: Act as the primary liaison between suppliers and internal stakeholders. Oversee day-to-day vendor operations, ensuring timely and high-quality deliverables. Facilitate regular service reviews and performance evaluations. Present vendor performance insights and risk assessments to senior leadership to support strategic decision‑making. Provide guidance and mentorship to junior team members involved in vendor coordination. Proactively address vendor-related concerns and ensure swift resolution through cross‑functional collaboration.

• Supplier Sourcing & Onboarding: Lead the end‑to‑end sourcing process including RFIs/RFPs, vendor selection, and onboarding. Collaborate with procurement and business units to identify and evaluate new supplier opportunities. Drive strategic sourcing initiatives to optimize vendor portfolio and service delivery. Resolve onboarding challenges and ensure smooth transitions for new suppliers.

• Compliance &
  
  Risk Management:
  
  Conduct thorough due diligence and information security assessments for all third‑party vendors. Ensure adherence to WTW’s compliance standards and regulatory requirements. Partner with Legal and Data Privacy teams to manage contractual and regulatory risks. Address compliance gaps and coordinate remediation efforts with internal stakeholders and vendors.

• Financial Oversight: Monitor vendor spend and provide detailed reporting to senior leadership. Manage monthly billing cycles and resolve discrepancies. Identify cost‑saving opportunities and negotiate favorable terms with suppliers. Investigate and resolve billing or payment issues in coordination with finance and vendor teams.

• Performance Monitoring:Develop and implement SLAs and KPIs tailored to vendor services. Track and report performance metrics, initiating corrective actions when necessary. Utilize vendor management systems and reporting tools to maintain transparency and accountability. Support team members in interpreting performance data and driving continuous improvement.

• Governance and Process Improvements:Support operations and contribute to initiatives aimed at improving vendor efficiency, governance, and value delivery. Lead cross‑functional efforts to enhance vendor governance frameworks and long‑term planning. Troubleshoot project‑related vendor challenges and ensure timely resolution to maintain momentum.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.

• Professional
  
  Experience:
  
  3–5 years in benefits administration, vendor management, procurement, or supply chain management, with a strong background in vendor operations.

• Skills and
  
  Competencies:
  
  Deep understanding of employee benefits programs, compliance, and vendor governance. Proven analytical skills in performance tracking and reporting. Demonstrated ability to manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts. Excellent communication, organizational, and cross‑functional collaboration skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities and work with diverse teams.

• Technical Knowledge:
  Experience with reimbursement account administration (HSA, health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts, health reimbursement arrangements, commuter accounts, tuition reimbursement, wellness/incentive programs).

• Team Leadership:
  Experience managing teams, providing feedback, and overseeing performance management.

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary range and benefits information for this position are being included in accordance with requirements of various state/local pay transparency legislation. Please note that salaries may vary for…