Supplier Enablement Specialist

The Supplier Enablement Specialist plays a key role in managing supplier onboarding and enablement within the SAP Ariba Supplier Lifecycle and Performance (SLP) module. This role ensures that suppliers are properly registered, compliant, and fully operational within the Ariba network, enabling smooth and efficient procurement transactions. The ideal candidate will be proactive, detail-oriented, and skilled in cross-functional collaboration.

This role is a prominent component to advancing iHerb’s mission of making health and wellness accessible worldwide. Core working hours are aligned to the Pacific Standard Time (PST) zone.

 

Core Responsibilities

• Manage End-to-End Onboarding: Oversee the complete direct and indirect  supplier onboarding process—from initial registration through full enablement in the Ariba network.
   

• Collect and Track Data: Initiate, gather, and maintain vendor responses, internal contact details, and required documentation throughout the onboarding lifecycle.
   

• Ensure Compliance: Validate supplier completion of all required compliance, risk, and pre-qualification questionnaires in accordance with company policies and regulatory requirements.  Participate with internal and external audit requests.
   

• Coordinate and Communicate: Serve as the primary liaison between suppliers, internal teams (such as Procurement, IT, Legal, and Finance), and external vendors to schedule meetings, resolve issues, and provide ongoing status updates.
   

• Provide Support and Training: Develop and maintain training materials, conduct onboarding sessions, and offer guidance to both internal stakeholders and suppliers on effectively using the Ariba SLP system.
   

• Generate Reports: Prepare, analyze, and present onboarding progress reports, highlighting key metrics, milestones, and performance outcomes.
   

• Influence Adoption: Encourage and guide suppliers to transact through the Ariba Network, promoting consistent adoption and compliance with digital procurement practices.

 

Required Skills and Experience

• Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with SAP Ariba SLP (Supplier Lifecycle and Performance) and familiarity with supplier enablement processes.
   

• Communication and Coordination: Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills with the ability to manage relationships across multiple teams and external partners.
   

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage onboarding projects, coordinate timelines, and execute onboarding “waves” effectively.
   

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to identify, escalate, and resolve onboarding or system-related issues efficiently.
   

• Business Acumen: Understanding of key business drivers, procurement processes, and how supplier enablement impacts operational efficiency and compliance.
   

• Detail-Oriented: Exceptional organizational skills with a focus on data accuracy, process tracking, and timely follow-ups. 
   

• Agility and Adaptability: Excellent  ability to multi-task and pivot as needed.

 

Equipment Knowledge:
 

• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

• Experience with Google Business Suite (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Forms) preferred

• Experience with SAP Ariba SLP or other supplier onboarding software

 

Experience Requirements:
 

A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is required, along with 2-5 years of experience in supplier enablement, procurement operations, or supplier management. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with SAP Ariba SLP and a strong understanding of supplier onboarding workflows. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and data accuracy are essential. This role also requires excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse internal and external stakeholders. The candidate should demonstrate a proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet tight deadlines, and apply analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues quickly..

 

Preferred Qualifications:
 

• Experience in global supplier management and risk/compliance processes.
   

• Proficiency in reporting tools such as Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or Tableau.
   

• Knowledge of procurement policies, supply chain processes, or vendor management systems beyond Ariba (e.g., Coupa, Jaggaer, etc.).
   

• Project management certification (PMP or equivalent) is a plus.

 

Judgment/Reasoning Ability:  Able to identify, troubleshoot and resolve problems quickly using sound judgment, poise and diplomacy.  Ability to use judgment and reasoning skills, and determine when to escalate issues, as required, in a timely manner.

 

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is regularly required to talk and hear. The Team Member is frequently required to sit, walk, climb stairs, use hands and fingers, bend, stoop and reach with hands and arms.  Reaching above shoulder heights, below the waist or lifting as required to file documents or store materials throughout the work day. The Team Member may occasionally lift or move office products and supplies up to 25 pounds. Proper lifting techniques required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

Work Environment: The noise in the work environment is usually moderate. Other factors are:

 

• Hectic, fast-paced with multi-level distractions

• Professional, yet casual work environment

• Office / Warehouse environment

• Must be able to work Pacific Standard Time (PST) business hours, but be flexible enough to work Eastern Standard Time on occasion.

• Ability to work extended hours as required