At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage key SaaS vendors and ensure their performance meets business needs.
- Company: Join a leading insurance company known for its innovative approach and strong market presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday, competitive salary, and health perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing team with a focus on strategic vendor relationships and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing vendor relationships is essential; SaaS experience is a plus.
- Other info: This role offers a hybrid work model, balancing office and remote work.
The predicted salary is between 39600 - 66000 £ per year.
Procurement Heads are partnering with a market-leading insurance company to support with the appointment of an IT Vendor Manager.
This is a newly created role, leading the management of a handful of business-critical, Tier-1 SaaS suppliers.
While experience with SaaS vendors would be desirable, it is not essential as long as you have experience managing other key strategic vendor relationships.
After having their best ever year last year, this role represents one of many new positions the organisation is investing in, so it's a great time to be joining.
The role will be based in their Southampton office, with 2 days a week spent in the office and the rest spent working from home.
Main Responsibilities as IT Vendor Manager:
- To oversee SaaS vendor performance, developing and managing supplier relationships to protect business interests and ensure costs reflect fair market value.
- Develop and maintain SaaS assurance models for vendors within the allocated portfolio, supporting areas such as Information Security, Compliance and Data Governance.
- Ensure any negotiation of commercial terms for strategic IT contracts provides beneficial outcomes for the business and the customer.
- Provide subject matter input to facilitate commercial terms discussions and value of contracts alongside or supporting the Central Procurement Team as appropriate.
- Maintain an awareness of innovation and opportunities in the SaaS Vendor market, translating these into strategic business outcomes.
- Identify and report risks associated with existing or potential SaaS vendors.
- Build effective strategic relationships with SaaS vendors ensuring sustainable business value is achieved.
Benefits of the IT Vendor Manager:
- Up to £55,000 salary.
- Flexible hybrid working policy (1 to 2 days in the office).
- A minimum of 35 days holiday (inc. bank holidays).
- Annual bonus schemes.
- Competitive private pension contribution.
- Health benefits include dental insurance and health cash plan.
- 16 weeks of full pay for maternity/paternity/adoption entitlement.
- Life insurance and critical illness cover.
- Retail discounts and Tech schemes.
IT Vendor Manager employer: Procurement Heads
Contact Detail:
Procurement Heads Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land IT Vendor Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the SaaS vendor landscape. Even if you don't have direct experience, understanding key players and trends in the market can help you speak confidently about potential vendors during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the IT procurement space. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may provide insights or even referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing vendor relationships. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully negotiated terms or improved vendor performance, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on compliance and data governance trends. Being knowledgeable about these areas will show that you understand the critical aspects of managing SaaS vendors and can contribute to the company's strategic goals.
We think you need these skills to ace IT Vendor Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in managing vendor relationships, especially if you have worked with SaaS suppliers. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in negotiation and relationship management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the IT Vendor Manager position, particularly in overseeing vendor performance and ensuring compliance.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills that are crucial for the role, such as negotiation, risk management, and strategic thinking. Provide concrete examples of how you've successfully applied these skills in previous roles.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the SaaS market and any trends or innovations that could impact vendor management. This shows that you are proactive and knowledgeable about the industry, which is valuable for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Procurement Heads
✨Research the Company and Its Vendors
Before the interview, take some time to research the insurance company and its key SaaS vendors. Understanding their business model and the specific vendors they work with will help you demonstrate your interest and knowledge during the conversation.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully navigated similar situations, focusing on the outcomes and lessons learned.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As an IT Vendor Manager, strategic thinking is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you would identify risks associated with vendors and how you would leverage innovation in the SaaS market to benefit the company. This will highlight your proactive approach.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Be prepared to discuss how you build and maintain relationships with vendors, as well as how you communicate complex information to different stakeholders. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.