Manager - IT, Vendor Management

Manager - IT, Vendor Management

Work Mode: Hybrid

Location: Hybrid at Kohler, WI

Opportunity

As the Manager – IT, Vendor Management, you will play a pivotal role in managing and optimizing our vendor relationships on a global scale. You will work closely with various departments, including procurement, IT operations, and finance, to ensure that vendor performance aligns with our business goals and objectives. Your strategic thinking, negotiation skills, and ability to build strong vendor partnerships will be critical to your success in this role.

Specific Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive global vendor management strategy that aligns with the company's IT and business objectives.
• Collaborate with procurement and other relevant departments to identify and select vendors that meet the company's technical, financial, and service level requirements.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure vendor performance and hold vendors accountable for meeting contractual obligations.
• Lead negotiations for IT contracts and agreements, ensuring favorable terms, cost-efficiency, and risk mitigation.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key vendors to foster collaboration and drive innovation.
• Continuously identify opportunities to optimize costs while maintaining high-quality vendor services.
• Assess and mitigate vendor-related risks, including cybersecurity, compliance, and business continuity.
• Ensure that all vendor activities adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, as well as internal policies and procedures.
• Maintain a comprehensive portfolio of vendors, including contract renewals, terminations, and consolidation efforts.
• Provide regular reports and analysis to senior management on vendor performance, cost savings, and strategic initiatives

Skills/Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in information technology, business, or related field required, with a preference towards a master’s degree.
• 5 years of experience in vendor management, procurement, or IT leadership roles. Proven track record of successfully managing vendor relationships on a global scale. Strong negotiation and contract management skills. Familiarity with IT procurement and vendor management tools and software.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

The salary range for this position is $143,450 –170,000. The specific salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate’s experience, their education, and the work location. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision & 401k.