Job Summary: Client is seeking an experienced IT Sourcing & RFP Specialist Sr to lead complex IT procurement activities. This role is responsible for managing end-to-end sourcing processes, including RFP/RFQ execution, contract negotiation, and vendor management across software, SaaS, cloud infrastructure, and professional services. The ideal candidate will operate independently, provide strategic procurement guidance, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities: IT RFP & Sourcing Leadership - Lead end-to-end RFP/RFQ processes for complex IT procurements (software, SaaS, cloud, cybersecurity, managed services)
- Develop RFP documents including scope, technical requirements, SLAs, KPIs, and evaluation criteria
- Manage full sourcing lifecycle: requirements gathering, vendor Q&A, evaluation, and selection
- Facilitate cross-functional evaluation teams across IT, Legal, Finance, and Security
- Conduct total cost of ownership (TCO) and financial analysis for sourcing decisions
Contract Negotiation & Execution - Lead negotiations for IT contracts including SaaS, cloud, licensing, and services agreements
- Draft and negotiate SLAs, KPIs, data security terms, and IP clauses
- Prepare executive-level summaries for vendor selection and negotiation strategies
- Manage contract execution and ensure proper documentation and archiving
Vendor & Supplier Management - Build and manage relationships with IT vendors and system integrators
- Conduct vendor performance reviews and ensure SLA adherence
- Identify and qualify new vendors through financial, security, and reference checks
- Drive cost optimization and value improvement initiatives
- Support vendor qualification processes across internal teams
Operational Procurement Support - Manage IT procurement portfolio exceeding $20MM annually
- Serve as primary procurement contact for IT stakeholders
- Review and approve requisitions in ERP systems
- Maintain contract databases and procurement records
- Coordinate with IT project managers to define statements of work
- Generate procurement reports and dashboards
Quality & Compliance - Ensure procurement activities comply with organizational policies and standards
- Maintain accurate procurement documentation and records
- Provide reporting and insights to leadership
- Stay updated on IT market trends and licensing models
Stakeholder Communication & Collaboration - Communicate effectively across IT, Legal, Finance, Operations, and executive leadership
- Manage competing priorities and stakeholder expectations
- Facilitate cross-functional meetings and vendor discussions
- Provide strategic sourcing guidance and procurement advisory support
- Deliver clear reports, executive summaries, and recommendations
Required Skills: - Strong expertise in IT sourcing, procurement, and RFP management
- Advanced contract negotiation and vendor management skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities
- Strong analytical and cost modeling skills
- Ability to influence cross-functional teams without authority
- Strong organizational and multitasking capabilities
Technical Skills: - Deep knowledge of IT licensing models (SaaS, subscription, consumption-based, perpetual)
- Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Understanding of IT security and compliance frameworks (SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA)
- Proficiency in ERP procurement systems and contract management tools
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (cost analysis, modeling)
- Knowledge of NERC CIP standards (preferred)
Education: - Bachelor's Degree in Business, Supply Chain, IT, or related field (required)
Experience: - Minimum 5+ years of IT procurement and sourcing experience
- Experience managing large-scale IT RFPs and contracts
- Proven experience handling procurement portfolios of $20MM+
Certifications (Preferred): - CPSM - Certified Professional in Supply Management
- CTPE - Certified Technology Procurement Executive
- Relevant IT vendor certifications (AWS, Microsoft, Salesforce)
