Supplier management involves adjusting supplier products to meet buyer needs, improving buyer product quality. The study found that supplier identification, evaluation, and legal/social compliance directly impact supplier relationship management. These factors also indirectly affect supplier relationship management through supplier development and choice. Supplier development and choice act as mediators for the impact of identification, evaluation, and compliance on relationship management. The research focused on auto companies in Chennai, suggesting further studies should involve executives from other areas and emphasize social responsibility of suppliers.