Third Party and Partner Program Manager

About the Role:

The Third-Party & Partner Program Manager will be accountable for the end to end management of third party operating partners supporting commercial finance program, with a primary focus on Loan Servicing Providers (LSP’s) and other critical operating partners. This role ensures partners operate as a true extension of Pathward’s commercial finance platform – delivering consistent service, regulatory compliance, operational resilience and scalable growth. This leader owns partner performance, risk oversight, contractual alignment, and strategic engagement.

What You Will Do:

• Owns the end-to-end operating partner relationship, serving as the single point of accountability for performance, delivery quality, risk and strategic alignment for assigned commercial finance operating partners. Develops relationships with the partner executive team and facilitates connections across the companies as appropriate.
• Develops and executes a comprehensive vendor and partner management plan aligned with organizational goals, (focusing on quality, throughput, risk management, and cost-effectiveness), including how performance will be measured and improved over time.
• Supports the Path to Revenue by assisting with the vendor and partner selection processes, including proposal evaluation, and due diligence to ensure alignment with business needs and standards.
• Builds and maintains partner specific operating plans that align partner delivery to commercial finance strategy, including targets, initiatives, dependencies, and required support. (includes minimum monthly performance management meetings)
• Establishes, monitors and manages KPIs that demonstrate vendor and partner performance and implements corrective actions as necessary. Conduct regular reviews, drive corrective actions, and ensure sustained partner improvement.
• Leads third-party risk identification for assigned partners and work with business relationship leaders and control functions to develop remediation strategies. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies. Acts as the primary liaison with the partner for any internal or external audit needs.
• Oversees the negotiation, drafting, and execution of contracts as well as renewals, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for the organization.
• Works closely with internal stakeholders to align vendor and partner management practices with overall business strategy.
• Identifies opportunities for process improvements within vendor and partner management practices, leveraging technology and best practices to optimize servicing workflows, reporting, controls and overall operational efficiency.
• Maintains continuous communication and readiness, ensuring issues are surfaced early and resolved quickly.
• Other duties as assigned.

What You Will Need:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field; preferred.
• 8 years Vendor Management experience, ideally in financial services.
• Strong understanding of vendor management principles, contract negotiation, and risk management.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships at all levels.