Senior Director, Vendor Management

Job Summary:The Senior Director of IT Vendor Management is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and operational execution of all vendor relationships within the IT department. The Senior Director develops and implements vendor management strategies, policies, and procedures to optimize vendor performance, minimize risk, and achieve cost savings while maintaining alignment with the organization's overall IT objectives. This role requires strong leadership, negotiation skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure the delivery of high-quality IT services and solutions.Job Responsibilities:Develops and executes strategic vendor management plans aligned with the organization's IT goals and objectives. Identifies and evaluates potential vendors, negotiates contracts, and establishes partnerships that drive innovation and value. Leads vendor selection processes, ensuring adherence to procurement policies and best practices.Monitors vendor performance against contractual agreements and service level agreements (SLAs). Establishes key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess vendor performance and quality of service. Conducts regular vendor performance reviews and initiates corrective actions as necessary to address performance issues.Collaborates with legal and procurement teams to mitigate contractual risks and ensure alignment with organizational policies and regulations. Oversees the negotiation, execution, and management of vendor contracts, including terms, conditions, pricing, and service levels. Ensures compliance with contractual obligations and manages contract renewals, extensions, and terminations as needed.Cultivates strong relationships with key vendors and serves as the primary point of contact for vendor communications and escalations. Facilitates regular meetings and communications with vendors to foster collaboration, address concerns, and drive continuous improvement. Advocates for the organization's interests while maintaining positive vendor relationships.Develops and manages vendor budgets, forecasts, and financial performance metrics. Identifies opportunities for cost optimization, efficiency improvements, and value-added services from vendors. Tracks and reports on vendor-related expenditures, ensuring alignment with budgetary constraints and financial goals.Assesses and mitigates vendor-related risks, partnering with Security and Compliance for regulatory concerns. Implements vendor risk management processes and procedures to ensure the integrity of IT vendor relationships. Ensures vendor compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.Collaborates with cross-functional teams to promote knowledge sharing and alignment on vendor management best practices.Sets financial, operational and quality objectives for the unit and develops master operational plans. Plans, develops and manages departmental expense and capital budgets.Develops short- and long-range product and service strategies and plans. Oversees the execution of operating plans for specified area of responsibility.Performs as an idea generator, working with others as a thought leader and subject-matter expert to help brainstorm new processes and solutions. Shares highly complex information related to areas of expertise. Interacts with senior management to keep abreast of objectives. Transfers knowledge and collaborates across functional lines and/or across departments. Interacts with direct reports and peers in management/customers/vendors to interpret information and improve cross-functional processes and programs. Builds and enhances key internal and external contacts.Develops and manages departmental expense and capital budgets.Allocates available resources to meet operating objectives. Builds and leads a high-performing vendor management team, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Develops and mentors staff through onboarding, open communication, training and development opportunities and performance management processes; builds and maintains employee morale and motivation; ensures the team is appropriately staffed with required competencies; fosters a culture of collaboration, accountability, continuous improvement and a diverse and inclusive workplace within the vendor management function.Basic Qualifications:Bachelor's degree and at least 8 years of experience in IT vendor management, procurement, contract negotiation, and/or vendor relationship management or related role OR a High School diploma/GED and at least 11 years of experience in IT vendor management, procurement, contract negotiation, and/or vendor relationship management or related role.Experience managing vendor relationships, negotiating contracts, and delivering strategic vendor management initiatives.Knowledge of IT vendor management principles, best practices, and industry trends.Experience influencing stakeholders at all levels.Experience driving results and fostering a collaborative work environment.Financial acumen and experience managing vendor budgets, forecasts, and financial performance metrics.Experience assessing and mitigating vendor-related risks.At least 5 years of experience contributing to financial decisions in the workplace.At least 5 years of direct leadership, indirect leadership and/or cross-functional team leadership.Willing to travel up to/at least 10% of the time for business purposes (within state and out of state).Preferred Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Business Administration.Master's degree.Certified Professional in Vendor Management, Certified Technology Procurement Executive.

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