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- Tasks: Manage IT contracts and ensure value for money in software and services.
- Company: Join Staffordshire Police's Digital, Data and Technology team transforming digital needs.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with competitive salary and benefits package.
- Why this job: Be part of a customer-focused team making a real impact in public service.
- Qualifications: Experience in vendor management and financial awareness in IT is essential.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with commercial teams and develop procurement strategies.
The predicted salary is between 38754 - 43300 £ per year.
Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) are responsible for transforming and supporting all of the force's digital technology needs. The Service team is responsible for all of the end user support in the ‘live’ environment whether it is delivered via internal resources or by external suppliers. The Service team is the most customer-facing division of the DDaT Department.
The Vendor Manager is responsible for governing and overseeing the effective operation of processes relating to ensuring we maximise the value for money for our software, hardware and services. The post holder will be responsible for monitoring and reporting on performance of these processes, identifying issues/under-performance and devising action plans in order to remediate such occurrences.
As a Vendor Manager your key tasks & responsibilities will include:
- To manage the delivery of a defined portfolio of IT contracted services to agreed standards and SLAs. In doing so, the post holder will also support contract performance management monitoring and attend contract meetings. Additionally, they will provide support on contractual issues arising, working in conjunction with the Commercial (Contracts and Procurement) team.
- To assist in the updating of the contracts register held by Commercial.
- Create and maintain a software renewals database.
- Monitor and undertake software renewals including assessing licensing models to identify optimal purchasing routes.
- To work with the Commercial team in reviewing IT contracts and oversee the ongoing rationalisation of contracts.
- To introduce appropriate professional good practice covering all aspects of contract and vendor management in a proportionate and pragmatic manner.
- To work closely with colleagues in the Commercial team (Finance directorate), supporting the development and implementation of IT/Digital Services Commercial strategies, and gaining their guidance and input on contracts wherever appropriate and in accordance with the organisation’s procurement regulations.
- To advise DDaT colleagues on any contractual, commercial, or financial matters with regard to existing and new IT supply contracts.
- To coordinate budget planning and reforecasting with the DDaT Leadership Team.
- Ensure that all third parties operate within the agreed budget thresholds and authorise invoices/purchase orders to the agreed levels.
As a Vendor Manager you will have the experience and skills:
- IT supply chain/vendor management experience in managing a wide portfolio of third party contracts.
- Experience of analysis and decision making requiring financial/commercial awareness, within an IT environment.
- Running or participating in competitive exercises in a public sector context including quotations, tenders and framework competitions.
- Experience as part of a commercial negotiating team.
- Experience coordinating budget setting and reforecasting.
- Experience implementing good practice in supply chain management, procurement and purchasing.
- Experience of rationalising contracts to reduce overheads.
- Experience working with a Managed Service Provider in the delivery of digital services through the supply of third party contracts.
Desirable:
- Post graduate qualification or equivalent experience.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills.
- Project management experience.
- Good communication skills.
- ITIL v3 or v4.
Vendor Manager employer: Talent
Contact Detail:
Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vendor Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific software and hardware used by Staffordshire Police. Understanding their current systems will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews and show that you're proactive about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the public sector, especially those involved in IT supply chain management. Attend relevant events or join online forums to gain insights and potentially get referrals that could boost your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your negotiation skills, as this role involves working closely with commercial teams. Consider role-playing scenarios with friends or colleagues to practice articulating your points clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in vendor management and procurement within the IT sector. Being able to discuss these trends during your interview will showcase your commitment to staying informed and your ability to bring innovative ideas to the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Vendor Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in IT supply chain and vendor management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage contracts and oversee performance, as these are key responsibilities for the Vendor Manager role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address how your skills align with the job description. Mention your experience with budget planning, contract negotiation, and stakeholder management. Be sure to express your enthusiasm for working with Staffordshire Police and contributing to their digital transformation.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Highlight any experience you have with ITIL frameworks, project management, and competitive exercises in public sector contexts. These skills are desirable for the position and will help you stand out as a candidate.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Vendor Manager role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Talent
✨Know Your Contracts
Familiarise yourself with the types of contracts and agreements relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss your experience in managing vendor contracts, including any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since the role requires financial awareness, be ready to talk about your experience with budget planning and reforecasting. Bring examples of how you've maximised value for money in previous roles.
✨Showcase Stakeholder Management Skills
Highlight your ability to manage relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teams, especially in a public sector context, to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of situations where you've had to analyse underperformance or devise action plans, and be ready to explain your thought process.
