IT Procurement Manager - Contract to Hire

The IT Procurement & Vendor Manager is responsible for the strategic oversight and operational execution of all procurement and vendor contract activities for IT-related goods and services. This role ensures that the organization procures high-quality IT solutions at optimal value while establishing and managing effective vendor relationships. The manager leads negotiations, ensures compliance with procurement policies, and supports IT initiatives through strategic sourcing and supplier performance management.

Job Duties/Roles

· Procurement Strategy and Planning: Develop and implement procurement strategies for IT that align with organizational objectives. Conduct market research to identify potential vendors and assess the competitive landscape and to identify trends, benchmarks, and new vendor capabilities

· Vendor Selection and Relationship Management: Lead the vendor selection process, evaluating proposals and negotiating terms to secure favorable agreements. Manage ongoing vendor relationships to ensure consistent quality, performance, and service delivery.

· Contract Negotiation and Management: Negotiate vendor contracts to ensure terms are favorable, compliant, and aligned with organizational needs. Oversee contract execution, monitoring, and management to ensure adherence to terms and conditions including contract renewals, amendments, and termination processes. Partner with legal, finance, and IT teams to ensure contracts meet regulatory, financial, and technical requirements.

· Vendor Performance: Establish and manage vendor performance metrics, scorecards, and governance processes.

· Cost Management and Optimization: Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements in IT procurement. Monitor procurement budgets and expenditures to ensure adherence to financial plans.

· Risk Management and Compliance: Identify and mitigate risks associated with vendor contracts and procurement processes. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, industry standards, and relevant regulations.

· Continuous Improvement: Lead initiatives to enhance procurement processes and vendor management practices, incorporating strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management methodologies.

Skills Required:

· Negotiation Skills: Strong ability to negotiate favorable terms and conditions with vendors to achieve cost-effective and high-quality outcomes.

· Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze vendor proposals, contracts, and performance metrics to inform decision-making and optimize procurement strategies. Financial acumen related to IT spend and cost management.

· Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey complex information clearly and persuasively to stakeholders and vendors.

· Problem-Solving Skills: Proactive approach to identifying and resolving challenges related to procurement and vendor management.

· Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy and consistency in contract management and procurement processes.

· Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain effective, long-term vendor and internal stakeholder relationships.

· Technical Knowledge: Understanding of IT products, services, and infrastructure to effectively evaluate vendor offerings.

· Tool Proficiency: Familiarity with procurement tools and software, such as strategic sourcing platforms or supplier relationship management systems

· Risk Management: Knowledge of risk management and regulatory compliance frameworks

Minimum years of Experience

7-10 years of experience in procurement, vendor management, or contract negotiation roles, preferably within the IT sector.

Required/Preferred Education Requirements

· Required: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Information Technology, or a related field.

· Preferred: Master’s degree in a related field.

Required/Preferred Professional Requirements

· Required: Proven track record of managing complex vendor relationships and negotiating contracts within the IT sector.

· Preferred: Familiarity with procurement frameworks such as strategic sourcing or supplier relationship management. Experience with procurement tools and software.