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- Tasks: Lead vendor management and contract negotiations for IT services at the University.
- Company: Join a Russell Group institution committed to excellence in teaching, learning, and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working arrangements and a supportive, inclusive team culture.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving strategic IT initiatives and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Professional qualification in Procurement or equivalent experience in IT vendor management required.
- Other info: We encourage diverse applicants, especially from underrepresented backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
About us
IT Services at the University of York
IT Services is responsible for providing outstanding technology and business services to the University. We are committed to delivering and supporting excellent customer-focussed services that match the teaching, learning and research ambitions of our Russell Group institution. We have exciting and ambitious plans to deliver new and enhanced capabilities to support the organisation in its delivery of its Strategy 2030, covering all aspects of IT including platforms, security and operational improvements that are future-proofed and support staff and student needs.
As the University delivers on its strategy, we are growing our partnerships with new and existing vendors and there is an increased need to manage the contracts and performance ensuring that they deliver real value. This includes specifically working with 3rd party Cloud IT service vendors, such as those hosted on AWS services, Salesforce platform, SaaS solutions and vendors providing full Managed Services. If you are looking for a fresh challenge and the opportunity to further develop this key service that will add significant value to the University’s mission to provide the very best in teaching, learning and research, we’d love to hear from you. You will join a close-knit, friendly and supportive team of passionate and committed colleagues with a genuine high-performance culture and ‘can-do’ mentality that makes our teams a great place to work.
About the role
The role of Head of IT Vendor Management sits within the newly formed IT Vendor Management team, reporting into the Assistant Director (Digital Services).
You will join the University at an exciting time as we build our vendor management capabilities. You will work with the IT Contracts Manager in providing the vision and expertise in designing, implementing and managing a contract and supplier management framework. You will uphold governance, principles and standards and coordinate all vendor management, license and procurement activities for IT Services.
With a key role in ensuring the University realises measurable benefits from its third-party expenditure, you will work in partnership with the business and key stakeholders to enable the development of long term plans for strategic IT Vendor Management and have experience in driving excellence, reducing risk and cost.
You will possess strong negotiation and influencing skills to determine ways to achieve the most advantageous results, and an extensive knowledge and experience of software licensing, contractual arrangements, and appropriate UK and international contract regulations.
Skills, Experience & Qualification needed
- Professional qualification in Procurement, Contract Management, ITAM and/or ITIL, or equivalent professional experience in a contract/vendor management role in an IT environment
- Significant experience of leading and managing contract and supplier management in a complex environment with multiple competing programmes and priorities
- Significant experience of leading procurement for IT and associated services (e.g. SaaS, CRM, ERP, Software Licencing, IT Hardware, and consultancy services)
- Experience in leading on complex tenders or commercial and performance negotiations with suppliers from the early stages, including pre-market engagement.
- Experience of different procurement routes, frameworks and contracting models.
- Experience of financial planning, report writing and budget management/forecasting
- Ability to develop and maintain an external network, engaging in horizon scanning and building effective and influential relationships with stakeholders. Be able to represent the University in relevant areas, providing professional advice
- Ability to lead complex contractual negotiations in order to agree mutually acceptable contract terms with external suppliers and represent the University in dispute resolution, and administration.
- Commitment to values and behaviours that create a successful environment for a high-performing team
- Level 6 qualification. (Qualifications at this level include a degree. Please view the full list). We also welcome applicants with equivalent non-uk qualifications or equivalent professional experience.
- Lead people – providing vision, motivation, inspiration and direction
- Lead large-scale projects
- Use digital technologies including Google applications and/or Microsoft Office
- Communicate to engage and influence others
- Evidence of upholding our behaviours as specified in the job description.
Interview date: To be confirmed
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact: Timothy Andrew , Assistant Director (Digital Services) at
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Head of Vendor Management employer: University of York
Contact Detail:
University of York Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Vendor Management
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest trends in IT vendor management, especially regarding cloud services like AWS and Salesforce. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise during discussions and interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of IT procurement and vendor management. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could provide insights and potential referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed vendor relationships and contracts in the past. Highlight your negotiation skills and any measurable outcomes from your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the University’s Strategy 2030 and align your experience and vision with their goals. Showing that you understand their mission and how you can contribute will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Vendor Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Vendor Management position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in contract management, procurement, and vendor relationships.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your significant experience in leading procurement for IT services, managing contracts, and negotiating with suppliers. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to deliver value and drive excellence in a complex environment.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since the role involves leading teams and projects, be sure to include examples of how you've provided vision and direction in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have in motivating teams and managing competing priorities.
Demonstrate Commitment to Diversity: The University values diversity and inclusion. In your application, consider mentioning any initiatives or experiences that reflect your commitment to creating an inclusive environment, especially if you have experience working with underrepresented groups.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of York
✨Showcase Your Vendor Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in managing vendor relationships, particularly with IT service providers. Highlight specific examples where you successfully negotiated contracts or improved vendor performance.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Illustrate your ability to develop long-term plans for vendor management. Discuss how you can align vendor strategies with the university's goals, especially in relation to the Strategy 2030 initiative.
✨Highlight Negotiation Skills
Prepare to share examples of complex negotiations you've led. Emphasize your approach to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes and how you handle disputes or challenges with suppliers.
✨Understand the University’s Values
Familiarize yourself with the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to a high-performing team culture that aligns with these values.
