Vendor Services & Procurement Manager - Veterinary

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and optimize strategic partnerships with manufacturers, distributors, and service providers
• Monitor vendor performance for compliance, service quality, and adherence to contract terms
• Lead quarterly business reviews with key suppliers and escalate performance issues
• Serve as primary liaison between vendors and internal teams to resolve issues, improve workflows, and enhance service delivery
• Develop and execute procurement strategies supporting cost savings, vendor consolidation, and product standardization across hospitals
• Oversee pricing accuracy and conduct audits within procurement platform for contract compliance
• Support clinics in optimizing inventory management, equipment procurement, online pharmacy use
• Manage supplier rebate/discount programs ensuring accurate tracking, reporting, and reconciliation
• Conduct spend analysis and provide leadership with insights to guide purchasing decisions and vendor alignment
• Ensure new practices transition to preferred vendors, pricing structures, and procurement workflows
• Cook up with Operations/IT/Finance to ensure seamless vendor account setup and data accuracy
• Support vendor services initiatives, technology enhancements, and enterprise procurement projects
• Participate in special projects and strategic initiatives as assigned
• Provide training and support to hospital teams on procurement tools and vendor programs

Basic Qualifications

• 4–6 years of experience in procurement, vendor management, supply chain, or related field
• Experience in veterinary, medical, or similar industry with rebate-heavy supplier programs strongly preferred
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret spend data and develop actionable insights
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Technical Skills

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position 75% of the time
• This position frequently communicates with managers at remote locations using email and phone; must be able to exchange clear, accurate information
• This position frequently communicates and collaborates with co-workers in the office
• Frequent keyboarding/use of computer for data entry

Supervision

• None

Work Location

Chicago, IL

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Flexible & Health Spending Accounts
• Disability, Life Insurance, and Critical Illness Coverage
• Retail plans with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO), Holidays, and Bereavement
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Volunteer Time-off
• Pet Perks with industry vendor partners, including deals on insurance, preventatives, food, and supplies
• Chicago CTA Transit Program Benefits
• Discounted gym memberships for local Chicago team members
• Childcare discounts with KinderCare
• Exclusive travel, entertainment, and retail discounts
• Hybrid and remote opportunities

Company Information

• We’re proud to announce that Blue River PetCare is a certified Great Place To Work!
• Blue River PetCare is a multi-state owner and operator of high-quality veterinary hospitals, with our corporate office located in downtown Chicago.
• We provide an exit strategy for owners of veterinary hospitals who are looking to reduce the headaches of business and diversify their asset base while continuing to practice or who are seeking to transition their practice as they consider retirement.
• We believe strongly in the local franchise and work with our hospitals to strengthen their existing hospital brands and carry on the legacies which have been established.
• Diversity is embraced at Blue River PetCare and the uniqueness of all individuals is supported.