At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and modernise software asset management across EMEA in a dynamic financial services environment.
- Company: Tier-one financial services organisation with a focus on innovation and compliance.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and long-term contract opportunities.
- Other info: High visibility role with significant influence across technology, finance, and risk sectors.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on software governance and regulatory compliance in a high-stakes environment.
- Qualifications: Senior SAM experience in banking or fintech, with strong knowledge of licensing models.
Software Asset Management (SAM) Practitioner – EMEA (Fintech / Banking) £650–£800 per day | Inside IR35 | 6-month contract London - Hybrid: 2–3 days per week
A tier-one financial services organisation operating at serious scale across EMEA is rebuilding its Software Asset Management capability from the ground up. This role exists because SAM is now a regulatory and commercial priority and not an afterthought. With increased scrutiny across licensing, audits, and operational resilience (including DORA), they need a senior SAM practitioner who can step in, take ownership, and set the standard. This is not business-as-usual SAM. You’ll be shaping how software governance works across a complex, regulated environment — with visibility, autonomy, and executive air cover.
Your Role
- Build and embed an end-to-end SAM operating model — lifecycle, governance, controls, and reporting
- Establish a clean, auditable entitlement position across major vendors (Microsoft, Oracle, Adobe, SaaS platforms)
- Lead audit readiness and vendor audits, reducing commercial and regulatory risk
- Drive licence optimisation and cost control — re-harvesting, rationalisation, and renewal strategy
- Own SAM data quality within ServiceNow SAM Pro, including dashboards and executive reporting
- Act as a senior advisor to IT, Procurement, Finance, and Risk on software usage and compliance
This is a role for someone who can answer: “Are we compliant, what are we exposed to, and where can we save money?”
What We’re Looking For
- Senior Software Asset Management experience in banking, fintech, or regulated environments
- Proven experience building or resetting SAM functions — not just running BAU
- Strong knowledge of software licensing models (SaaS, subscription, cloud, perpetual)
- Hands-on expertise with ServiceNow SAM Pro (data, entitlements, dashboards)
- Confident leading audits, vendor discussions, and renewals
- Comfortable engaging senior stakeholders across Technology, Finance, and Risk
Why This Role
- Own SAM end-to-end — real accountability, not admin
- Direct impact on regulatory posture and software spend
- High visibility within a critical EMEA technology function
- Hybrid working with a long-term contract runway
Software Asset Management Engineer - Contract - Financial Services in London employer: Harrington Starr
Join a leading tier-one financial services organisation in London, where you will play a pivotal role in reshaping the Software Asset Management landscape. With a strong focus on employee growth and a collaborative work culture, this company offers competitive daily rates and the flexibility of hybrid working, ensuring that you can thrive both professionally and personally. Here, your expertise will directly influence regulatory compliance and cost efficiency, making it an exciting opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the fintech sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Asset Management Engineer - Contract - Financial Services in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fintech and banking sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s current SAM practices and challenges. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who understands their needs and can bring real value. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience with software licensing models and audit readiness.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role and how you can help them modernise their SAM function. It keeps you top of mind and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined process that makes it easy for you to showcase your skills. Plus, it gives us a chance to see your application in the best light. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to land that contract!
We think you need these skills to ace Software Asset Management Engineer - Contract - Financial Services in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role. Highlight your experience in Software Asset Management, especially in banking or fintech. We want to see how you've built or reset SAM functions before!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use specific examples of how you've led audits or optimised licensing. We love seeing real-world applications of your expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you're passionate about SAM and how you can make a difference in our team. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harrington Starr
✨Know Your SAM Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Software Asset Management knowledge, especially in the context of financial services. Be ready to discuss specific licensing models and how they apply to major vendors like Microsoft and Oracle. This will show that you’re not just familiar with SAM but that you can also navigate its complexities in a regulated environment.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
Think about past experiences where you've built or reset SAM functions. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you’ve tackled challenges like audit readiness or vendor negotiations. This will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and ability to drive real change, which is crucial for this role.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves engaging with senior stakeholders across various departments, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you would advise IT, Procurement, and Finance on software usage and compliance, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively in a high-stakes environment.
✨Showcase Your Data Skills
Familiarise yourself with ServiceNow SAM Pro and be ready to talk about how you would ensure data quality and create impactful dashboards. Highlight any previous experience you have with data management and reporting, as this will be key in demonstrating your capability to own the SAM function end-to-end.
