How do you manage relationships with vendors and suppliers? - Weaving Stories Through Hospitality and Tourism

Sample interview questions: How do you manage relationships with vendors and suppliers?

Sample answer:

Building and Maintaining Relationships:

Establish clear communication channels: Maintain open and regular communication to facilitate information exchange, negotiate terms, and resolve issues promptly.
Set expectations: Clearly communicate hotel requirements, quality standards, and expectations to ensure alignment with vendors’ capabilities.
Conduct regular meetings: Schedule meetings to discuss performance, identify areas for improvement, and foster collaboration.
Provide feedback: Regularly provide constructive feedback to vendors, recognizing strengths and suggesting areas for growth.

Negotiation and Contract Management:

Research and vet vendors: Conduct thorough due diligence to identify reputable and reliable vendors before entering into agreements.
Negotiate competitive terms: Leverage hotel’s purchasing power and industry knowledge to secure favorable pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms.
Review and manage contracts: Carefully review and negotiate contracts to ensure they meet the hotel’s needs and protect its interests.
Monitor vendor performance: Track vendor performance against agreed-upon metrics to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.