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- Tasks: Manage IT contracts and ensure top-notch service delivery while monitoring performance.
- Company: Join Staffordshire Police's Digital, Data and Technology team transforming digital services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with competitive salary and benefits package.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact in public service.
- Qualifications: Experience in vendor management and IT supply chains is essential.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and collaboration with a dedicated commercial team.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 43000 £ per year.
Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) are responsible for transforming and supporting all of the force's digital technology needs. The Service team are 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 for to agreed standards and SLAs. In doing so the post holder will also support contract performance management monitoring and attend contract meetings etc. 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 effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in vendor management and procurement within the public sector. Being able to discuss these trends in your interview will show that you're not only knowledgeable but also forward-thinking.
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 vendor management, IT supply chain, and contract negotiation. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in managing third-party contracts and achieving value for money.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that directly addresses the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. Explain how your background aligns with the role and express your enthusiasm for working with Staffordshire Police.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise any experience you have with budget planning, contract performance management, and working with commercial teams. Mention any specific projects or achievements that showcase your ability to manage vendor relationships effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application 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
✨Showcase Your Vendor Management Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in managing vendor relationships and contracts. Highlight specific examples where you maximised value for money or improved service delivery, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Understand the Public Sector Context
Familiarise yourself with the unique challenges and regulations of public sector procurement. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated competitive exercises, tenders, and framework competitions in the past.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since the role requires financial awareness, be prepared to talk about your experience with budget planning, reforecasting, and contract performance management. Use specific metrics or outcomes to illustrate your points.
✨Engage with Stakeholder Management
Highlight your stakeholder management skills by discussing how you've effectively communicated and collaborated with various teams. Provide examples of how you've resolved conflicts or facilitated discussions to achieve common goals.
