Job DescriptionThis Phoenix based role will be responsible for the ongoing governance and oversight of strategic third parties covering a broad spectrum of Software.
We are looking for a candidate with a strong background in negotiations, vendor management or third-party risk management (specifically focused on technology) to develop effective strategies to engage with external software vendors with the objective of achieving optimal performance and value.
The role operates as a key relationship and decision-lead position, partnering closely with Engineering, Global Supply Management (Procurement), General Counsel Office (Legal), and Technology delivery teams. The successful candidate will help develop negotiation strategies, team with internal business partners to negotiate contracts, partner with individual business units to develop a demand forecast, manage vendor performance, and drive cost optimization while maintaining strong vendor relationships.
Responsibilities• Own end-to-end vendor strategy for Software partners, including commercial positioning, performance governance, cost optimization, and value realization aligned to Technology and enterprise objectives.
• Lead complex sourcing events and contract negotiations, including network Request for Proposals, Statements of Work, and Master Service Agreements, translating technical and business requirements into optimized contractual structures, pricing models, and performance terms.
• Serve as the primary relationship owner for strategic Software vendors, leading Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs), enforcing governance standards, and holding partners accountable to delivery, quality, and financial commitments.
• Provide your expertise and engage with external research companies to understand trends in the industry and create a point of view on competitive pricing, delivery locations, and emerging opportunities/risks.
• Interpret contractual language to support stakeholder requests and issue/dispute resolution.
• Develop a framework to assess capability/strengths of existing and potential vendor partners to support sourcing decisions.
• Deliver executive-ready updates, insights, and recommendations to senior Technology and enterprise leadership.
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications • 5-8 years of experience managing enterprise-scale Software vendor engagements, including RFPs, contract negotiations, and ongoing vendor governance.
• Demonstrated experience negotiating, developing, and administering enterprise-wide Software licensing agreements and models (SaaS, subscription, perpetual) with major key Software vendors.
• Proven ability to structure and manage contracts, renewals, and compliance obligations.
• Strong track record of building trusted relationships and influencing senior leaders.
• Understanding of Software development processes and technologies, coupled with insight into the Software vendor landscape and competitive dynamics.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment (3 days per week in office).
• Strong interpersonal skills.
Preferred Qualifications • Program or portfolio management experience supporting large-scale technology initiatives.
• Experience negotiating AI terms and conditions (machine learning, generative, agentic, deterministic, etc.)
• Strong stakeholder leadership and influence skills, including the ability to challenge the status quo while maintaining productive partnerships.
Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the United States is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.
About the TeamWe back you with benefits that support your holistic well-being so you can be and deliver your best. This means caring for you and your loved ones' physical, financial, and mental health, as well as providing the flexibility you need to thrive personally and professionally:
- Competitive base salaries
- Bonus incentives
- 6% Company Match on retirement savings plan
- Free financial coaching and financial well-being support
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability benefits
- Flexible working model with hybrid, onsite or virtual arrangements depending on role and business need
- 20+ weeks paid parental leave for all parents, regardless of gender, offered for pregnancy, adoption or surrogacy
- Free access to global on-site wellness centers staffed with nurses and doctors (depending on location)
- Free and confidential counseling support through our Healthy Minds program
- Career development and training opportunities
For a full list of Team Amex benefits, visit our Colleague Benefits Site.
The below represents the expected salary range for this job requisition. Ultimately, in determining your pay, we'll consider your location, experience, and other job-related factors.
