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- Tasks: Manage Microsoft partnerships and optimise software supplier performance for ARO.
- Company: Join ARO, a leading IT services provider with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive perks like private medical insurance, hybrid working, and 25 days holiday.
- Why this job: Be a key player in maximising financial performance and driving innovation in tech.
- Qualifications: Experience with Microsoft partnerships and strong commercial acumen required.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace focused on collaboration, growth, and employee wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the role
As an award winning IT Services and Solutions provider, ARO’s portfolio of software and SAAS vendors are key to delivering business advantage. First among these is Microsoft, with ARO currently providing extensive Microsoft Cloud offerings including Office 365, Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, PowerApps and Azure services. As Partner Manager for software, you will play a critical role in helping to maximise ARO’s financial performance. You will manage ARO’s portfolio of key software vendors, with a primary focus on Microsoft partner programme management. You will be responsible for agreeing and managing vendor business plans through life-cycle activities. You will have strong commercial acumen to ensure ARO maximises margins. Specifically for Microsoft, you will be an expert at managing Microsoft’s Partner Programme and Microsoft Cloud Licensing.
Please note that this is a Hybrid role with onsite requirement 3 days a week. You must be able to commute to the office and have your own transport.
What you’ll do
Manage a portfolio of key ARO software suppliers
- Subject matter expert for key partner programmes within software segment, primarily Microsoft, Kaseya and Barracuda.
- Manage a preferred software supplier portfolio, and consolidate or expand as required to deliver material commercial advantage.
Microsoft Partner Program and One Tier Supply
- Serve as the primary subject matter expert (SME) on the Microsoft Partner Program and Microsoft Licensing.
- Understand and advise on the financial and compliance implications of various licensing models and Microsoft programmes.
- Enable teams to resolve Microsoft licensing and billing queries, acting as the final point of escalation for complex issues
Performance & Incentives
- Own the submission and tracking of Microsoft incentives, rebates, and funding programs (e.g. Azure MDP, ECIF, Co-op).
- Monitor and manage performance against Microsoft competency and partner tiering metrics.
Analyse ARO performance to produce actionable insights that deliver commercial advantage.
Supplier life-cycle management / Supplier Business plan
- Maximise margins by defining and managing business plans for our key software partners.
- Coordinate internal stakeholders (Sales, Marketing, Cloud Practice, Managed Services) to agree and deliver joint business plans.
Supplier onboarding and performance management
- Onboarding – ensuring internal stakeholders are mobilized to integrate new suppliers.
- Business owner for supplier portal access.
- Conduct regular key supplier reviews to review performance and identify improvements.
- Remove or consolidate suppliers for performance or commercial reasons.
Purchasing procedure management
- Ensure purchasing team are following correct work instructions to optimize purchasing e.g. Microsoft Partner Centre and license allocations.
Risk Management & Compliance
- Ensure suppliers meet ARO, legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.
- Work with Revenue Assurance and Billing teams to reduce software revenue or cost leakage.
- Identify and mitigate risks related to supply continuity, quality, and compliance.
What we are looking for?
Essential
- Solid experience of managing a Microsoft partnership within an IT, Cloud, or Services-led organisation.
- Deep knowledge and experience of Microsoft Partner Centre and Microsoft licensing.
- Highly commercial; proven record of delivering commercially advantageous solutions.
- Strong communication and collaboration abilities.
- Analytical, inquisitive, methodical, with a high attention to detail
- Ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Desirable
- Certifications e.g. Microsoft Fundamentals (e.g., MS-900, AZ-900, SC-900, AI-900, PL-900)
- Experience working within vendor and partner programs, especially Microsoft AI Cloud Partner Program with multiple Solution Partner designations or higher.
- Familiar with CSP/ISV models, Microsoft Solution Plays, or Microsoft Azure GTM strategy.
- Certification in Procurement or Supply Management (e.g., CPSM).
Who are we?
Aro has 25 years’ experience in Collaboration, Connectivity, Cloud and Infrastructure and Cyber Security services both in the UK and Internationally and has a nationwide presence with offices across the UK.
As one of the UK’s leading independent IT and communication experts our mission is to deliver a seamless technology experience to all end users. To make that vision a reality, we need bright, tenacious and inspiring talent to help drive our performance, growth and achieve this mission.
To make us successful we focus on strong communication, a culture based on fun, trust and collaboration. We have created a modern workplace environment, which is full of engaged, energetic, positive and curious people whose productivity, resilience and wellbeing allow them to thrive.
In 2021 we were awarded the People Insight’s Outstanding Workplace Award, which celebrates organisations building positive workplace cultures and acting on employee feedback to spark positive change.
Why Work for Aro?
At Aro we are committed to creating an excellent employee experience. Our employees, culture and additional benefits all make Aro a great place to work. Come join us!
We offer a wide range of benefits and incentives to our employees including:
- Company Pension Scheme and matching contributions
- Company Perks portal
- Private Medical insurance
- Life assurance
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays plus holiday trading
- Your Birthday off, on us!
- Health Club and Wellbeing Scheme
- Aro Shares after 12 months employment
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Technical Training Academy and E-learning
- Hybrid working
If even 80% of this matches your experience and attributes, we would be delighted to hear from you.
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Microsoft Partner / Licensing Manager employer: ARO
Contact Detail:
ARO Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Microsoft Partner / Licensing Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry, especially those who work with Microsoft. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your knowledge of Microsoft’s Partner Programme and licensing. Share specific examples of how you've maximised margins or improved supplier performance in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching ARO and its key software suppliers. Understand their business model and how you can contribute to their success. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around Microsoft Cloud offerings.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining ARO and being part of our amazing team!
We think you need these skills to ace Microsoft Partner / Licensing Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Microsoft Partner / Licensing Manager. Highlight your experience with Microsoft partnerships and any relevant certifications. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your commercial acumen and experience with Microsoft licensing.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage vendor relationships and drive financial performance. Numbers speak volumes, so include metrics where possible to back up your claims!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ARO
✨Know Your Microsoft Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Microsoft Partner Programme and licensing models. Be ready to discuss how you've managed partnerships in the past and any specific experiences with Microsoft products like Azure or Office 365.
✨Show Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples that showcase your ability to deliver commercially advantageous solutions. Think about times when you maximised margins or improved supplier performance, and be ready to share those insights during the interview.
✨Collaboration is Key
Since this role involves coordinating with various internal teams, be prepared to talk about your collaboration skills. Share specific instances where you successfully worked with sales, marketing, or other departments to achieve a common goal.
✨Ask Smart Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about ARO’s approach to managing software suppliers or their future plans with Microsoft. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
