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 teams.
- 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 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 hybrid working arrangements and the opportunity to make a significant impact on regulatory compliance and cost efficiency. Embrace the chance to work in a dynamic environment that values innovation and accountability, ensuring your contributions are recognised and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Software Asset Management Engineer - Contract - Financial Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fintech and banking sectors. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities, especially in Software Asset Management. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of software licensing models and SAM best practices. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled similar challenges in the past. Show them you’re not just a candidate; you’re the solution they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to leverage our website for job applications! We’ve got a range of roles that could be a great fit for your skills. Plus, applying directly through us can give you an edge in the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you top of mind. Make it personal by mentioning something specific from your conversation!
We think you need these skills to ace Software Asset Management Engineer - Contract - Financial Services
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!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this high-impact role. Share specific examples of how you've driven licence optimisation and engaged with senior stakeholders.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your hands-on expertise with ServiceNow SAM Pro. We’re looking for someone who can own SAM data quality, so make sure you highlight relevant projects or achievements in this area.
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 out on any 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.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
This role requires someone who can take ownership and lead initiatives. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully built or reset SAM functions. Highlight how you’ve engaged with senior stakeholders and driven compliance and cost-saving strategies.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ServiceNow SAM Pro
Since hands-on expertise with ServiceNow SAM Pro is crucial, make sure you know the ins and outs of the platform. Be ready to discuss how you’ve used it for data management, entitlement tracking, and reporting. If possible, bring examples of dashboards you've created or improved.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about potential challenges in software governance and how you would address them. This could include audit readiness or vendor negotiations, so have a few strategies in mind to showcase your proactive approach.