Supplier Relationship Specialist

Required Qualifications (please document on resume):

• BA/BS degree or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years.
• Ability to handle multiple projects at once.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Suite and Google Workspace.

Position Overview
The Supplier Relationship Specialist is the primary "gatekeeper" for the University’s supplier database. They provide critical support in supporting the University's purchasing and payables teams. This role reports directly to the Purchasing Operations Manager and will focus on precision and timeliness of executing recurring onboarding and maintenance tasks. They will work relatively independently, as requests enter the worklist, doing a preliminary screening of supplier applications and ensuring all requirements are met. They are also responsible for entering the data into the Enterprise Financial System (EFS). This work is largely scripted by established procedures and guidelines. The primary responsibility is to ensure that incoming supplier data is clean, compliant, and properly categorized as it enters the Enterprise Financial System.

Work Location:
This hybrid position is based on the Twin Cities campus. For those located in the metro area, a minimum of three days per week in the office is expected. Internal and external applicants located near other UMN system campuses and across the State of Minnesota may also be considered, and we encourage all interested candidates to apply. Occasional travel to the Twin Cities campus may be required for events and all-staff meetings. Out of state candidates must be willing to relocate to Minnesota at their own expense.

Responsibilities:
Supplier Management & Compliance (75%)

• Data Entry & Precision: Owns the entry process for new supplier onboarding in the Enterprise Financial System (EFS) system, as well as maintenance for existing suppliers, with an emphasis on accuracy to prevent downstream payment issues.
• Documentation Review & "Push Back": Analyzes and verifies supplier tax forms and University forms (e.g., W-9, W-8 series) to ensure they fall within university standards. If documents are incomplete or non-compliant, this role is responsible for pushing back to the requester or supplier to request corrections. This role is responsible for routing these documents to the appropriate reviewer if there seems to be a larger discrepancy in the database, or if independent vs. employee contractor review is needed, based on Standard Operating Procedures.

Communication & Customer Support (20%)

• Understanding the structure of the supplier database: Helps units identify why a supplier may or may not be able to be used on a Purchase Order based on the information that was provided, helps units identify addresses/location issues in Enterprise Financial System (EFS).
• Problem Solving: Resolves problems of limited scope and complexity, such as correcting minor data conflicts or clarifying standard documentation requirements
• Communication: Provides prompt, high-quality customer service by sharing relevant information with the right amount of detail to internal departments. Helps manage the supplier ticket queue in a timely manner.
• Continuous Improvement: Participate in process improvement initiatives, contribute creative and collaborative ideas to management, and actively seek opportunities for self-development and training.

Other support tasks as assigned (5%)

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Required application materials: Resume

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).