Vendor Management Specialist

Job ID: IA-785847

Hybrid/Local Vendor Management Specialist with tracking SLAs/KPIs/risk metrics, cybersecurity, data privacy, accessibility, Financial/Risk/Change Management experience

Location: Des Moines, IA (DHS-IMHI: Department of Human Services)
Duration: 6 Months

THIS IS A HYBRID POSITION THAT REQUIRES THE RESOURCE TO BE ONSITE ON WEDNESDAYS. SUBMIT LOCAL/REGIONAL RESOURCES WHO CAN BE ONSITE EACH WEDNESDAY.

Skills:
Manage vendor relationships for software, hardware, cloud services, and IT consulting engagements. Required 3 Years
Experience tracking SLAs, KPIs, and risk metrics; initiating corrective actions for underperformance. Required 3 Years
Knowledge of IT procurement standards, including cybersecurity, data privacy, and accessibility. Required 3 Years
Ability to develop and maintain a strategic vendor portfolio aligned with the agency s IT roadmap Required 3 Years
Conduct market research to identify emerging technologies and qualified vendors. Required 3 Years
Benchmark vendor pricing and service levels against industry standards to ensure value for money. Required 3 Years

Job Description:
The Division of Information Technology (DoIT) provides adaptable, secure, and cost-effective technology services and solutions for the Department of Management (DOM) and its partners. DoIT manages all State of Iowa Executive Branch IT assets, projects, and resources, delivering high-value technology and expertise to support Iowa s citizens and families.

This position will play a key role in managing IT vendor relationships, ensuring contract compliance, and supporting strategic sourcing initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in IT vendor management, contract oversight, and risk mitigation.
Minimum Qualification: Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university and a minimum of two years of full-time relevant work experience.

Duties and Responsibilities
IT Vendor Relationship Management
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key IT vendors and service providers.
Serve as the escalation point for vendor-related issues and disputes.
Facilitate regular vendor performance and business reviews.

IT Agreement & SLA Oversight
Oversee negotiation, execution, and renewal of IT Statements of Work (SOWs).
Ensure alignment with legal, financial, and operational standards.
Monitor compliance with SLAs, KPIs, and contractual obligations.
Collaborate with legal and procurement teams to ensure enforceable and favorable contract terms.

IT Financial & Risk Management
Track vendor spend and ensure alignment with IT budgets and forecasts.
Identify and manage vendor-related risks, including cybersecurity, data privacy, and operational continuity.
Support audits and compliance initiatives related to vendor engagements.

Change and Issue Management
Log and track vendor-related issues, escalations, and change requests.
Coordinate resolution of service disruptions or contract disputes.
Document change control approvals for IT services or infrastructure.

Stakeholder Communication
Schedule and document vendor meetings, demos, and onboarding sessions.
Communicate vendor updates, risks, and contract changes to stakeholders.
Other duties as assigned.