Senior Manager, Vendor Management

Sparkfund is the utility services company unlocking capacity on the grid. Through its Distributed Capacity Procurement (DCP) model Sparkfund enables utilities energy majors and large-load customers to deploy front-of-the-meter batteries and gensets as distribution infrastructure. By adding targeted capacity exactly where and when the grid needs it most DCP helps meet demand support reliability and put downward pressure on rates. Sparkfund supports program design grid value assessment asset host engagement and value chain management to ensure on-time on-budget deployment with maximum system value and lowest cost.

With more than 3200 projects deployed across 43 states and more than 300MW of energized assets constructed Sparkfund is transforming customer-sited assets into a valuable portfolio resource for the benefit of our society. To learn more about Sparkfund visit .

Location: Minneapolis MN (Hybrid)
Department: Projects
Reports To: VP Engineering & Project Operations

At Sparkfund were transforming how energy infrastructure projects are delivered. As we continue to grow were looking for a Senior Manager of Vendor Management to lead the relationships processes and strategy that ensure our vendor ecosystem can scale alongside the business.

This is more than a procurement role. Youll oversee a portfolio of vendor relationships that directly support project execution across the country helping Sparkfund deliver high-quality outcomes while balancing performance cost and risk. Youll lead a team influence cross-functional decision-making and play a key role in building the systems and partnerships that enable long-term growth.

If you enjoy developing teams solving operational challenges negotiating strategic partnerships and creating scalable processes wed love to meet you.

• Manage a portfolio of vendor relationships supporting Sparkfunds project delivery operations.

• Execute vendor selection qualification and performance management processes.

• Lead vendor scorecards business reviews and performance improvement initiatives.

• Support commercial negotiations and vendor relationship management activities.

• Maintain and optimize Sparkfunds approved vendor network.

• Monitor vendor performance capacity geographic coverage and operational readiness.

• Identify and mitigate supply chain risks that could impact project delivery.

• Develop contingency plans for critical vendor dependencies.

• Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure vendor capabilities align with project needs.

• Manage and coach a team of Vendor Management professionals.

• Establish priorities performance expectations and development plans.

• Foster a culture of accountability collaboration and continuous improvement.

• Support workforce planning and team capability development as the function grows.

• Collaborate with Engineering Delivery Contract Management and Finance teams.

• Align vendor activities with project and program objectives.

• Support operational planning and execution through effective vendor engagement.

• Serve as a trusted advisor on vendor performance risk and commercial considerations.

• 8 years of experience in vendor management procurement supply chain or related functions.

• Experience managing vendor portfolios in project-based construction infrastructure or operational environments.

• Strong negotiation commercial and relationship management skills.

• Experience leading vendor performance programs and governance processes.

• Demonstrated people leadership experience including coaching and team development.

• Ability to analyze data identify trends and make informed business decisions.

• Experience in energy utilities infrastructure distributed energy resources (DER) or related industries.

• Experience managing EPC firms subcontractors or field service vendors.

• Familiarity with vendor management platforms procurement systems and performance tracking tools.

• Experience scaling vendor operations within a growing organization.

• Thinks strategically about vendor relationships not just individual transactions.

• Balances cost performance quality and risk when making decisions.

• Builds strong partnerships across teams and with external stakeholders.

• Creates structure and process while remaining adaptable in a growing environment.

• Develops people and builds high-performing teams.

• Takes ownership and drives results.

At Sparkfund youll join a mission-driven organization helping customers deploy and manage critical energy infrastructure solutions. Were a remote-first company that values flexibility collaboration and continuous improvement.

• Competitive compensation of $170000 - $203000 base salary. Final compensation will be determined based on experience qualifications location and market considerations.

• Employer-subsidized medical dental and vision coverage

• 401(k) with employer match

• Flexible vacation policy

• 12 weeks of paid parental leave

• Monthly phone and internet stipend

• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development

If youre excited about building scalable vendor partnerships leading teams and helping shape the future of project delivery wed love to hear from you.

Apply today and help power whats next at Sparkfund.

Sparkfundis an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate in employmenton the basis ofrace color religion creed sex (including pregnancy sexual orientation and gender identity) national origin ancestry age disability genetic information marital status veteran or military status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Sparkfundalso provides reasonableaccommodationsfor qualified individuals with disabilities and forsincerely heldreligious beliefs or practices in all phases of the hiring process and throughout employment. If you needan accommodation please let us know.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties responsibilities or qualifications. Duties responsibilities and requirements may change at any time based on business needs. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds and experiences to apply even if you do not meet every listed qualification as skills and competencies can develop indifferent ways.