How would you deal with a vendor that refuses to bribe you Purchasing Manager?

Question

I was told by my Purchasing Manager that one our most important vendors refuses to kick back 15% to him. That hardly seems fair. My company gives him over a million dollars in orders a year!

While I can understand that the vendor may have cash-flow problems, there is no reason it can't be worked out on a long term pay back agreement.

My PM has bills to pay. And a rather large family to support. And, well, a few girlrfriends too.

I don't want to lose this vendor. What are your suggestions?

Answer 1

Audition to go on Letterman.

Answer 2

Hi

If the percentage( 15%) was not agreed upon in a legal binding contract - he doesn't and shouldn't be expected to do anything.If he is willing to meet with you and set up a contract to include a percentage - then that is fair - but is his choice.

You can't expect him to change mid stream becasue of someone else' financial issues. Techinally it is not his problem.

If you enforce this upon him - he could back out and the next thing you know you will lose other vendors (word gets around)

If you intend to request a percentage then it must apply to everyone at the same time.

Answer 3

You need to find a new PM. One that knows how to get the proper vendor cooperation.

Answer 4

Take a class in Ethics 101?

Answer 5

Give your purchasing manager a raise so that he can support his family without the kickbacks.

Answer 6

Kick backs are a huge no-no in most organizations. I suggest you start talking with your HR department, or if they are not interested, I would then talk with your legal department (assuming your company is large enough to have one). It is absolutely wrong to take kick back money -- blow him in!!

Answer 7

Be thankful that there are still SOME HONEST people out there.
"Kickbacks" only increase the cost of goods to us as purchasers.
What did you say was your company ? . :-)

Answer 8

Imagine!