At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage key SaaS vendor relationships and ensure optimal performance.
- Company: Join a leading insurance company with a strong market presence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 35+ days holiday, and competitive health benefits.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing team in a dynamic environment with significant impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing strategic vendor relationships is essential; SaaS experience is a plus.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to shape vendor strategies and drive innovation.
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 of 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. Research key players and emerging trends in the market to demonstrate your knowledge during interviews. This will show that you're proactive and understand the strategic importance of vendor management.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the procurement and vendor management space. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals for the role. Building these relationships can give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing vendor relationships, even if they are not SaaS-specific. Highlight your negotiation skills and how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles to showcase your suitability for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on compliance and data governance issues related to SaaS vendors. Being knowledgeable about these areas will not only help you in the role but also impress potential employers during discussions about risk management and vendor performance.
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 vendors. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in negotiation and supplier 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 developing supplier relationships and ensuring compliance.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Focus on key skills that are essential for the role, such as risk management, negotiation, and knowledge of information security and compliance. Use bullet points to make these stand out in your application.
Showcase Your Understanding of the Market: Demonstrate your awareness of the SaaS vendor market in your application. Mention any trends or innovations you are familiar with and how they could benefit the company, showing that you are proactive and knowledgeable.
How to prepare for a job interview at Procurement Heads
✨Showcase Your Vendor Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experiences managing vendor relationships, even if they are not specifically in the SaaS sector. Highlight how you have successfully navigated negotiations and built strong partnerships.
✨Understand SaaS Market Trends
Research current trends and innovations in the SaaS market. Being able to discuss these insights during your interview will demonstrate your proactive approach and understanding of the industry.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage risks associated with vendors. Think of examples where you've successfully mitigated risks or improved vendor performance.
✨Emphasise Your Negotiation Skills
Since negotiation is a key part of this role, prepare to discuss specific instances where you negotiated terms that benefited your organisation. Use metrics or outcomes to illustrate your success in these situations.