Technology Procurement Manager (AU Education, Hybrid)

As a Technology Procurement Manager at ConnectOS, you will be responsible for creating documented objectives around IT vendor management, contract lifecycle, and performance management. Your role entails collaborating closely with project teams and legal to formalize agreements while utilizing advanced analytics to enhance contract management and compliance. Monitoring vendor performance and implementing continuous improvement initiatives are also key functions of this role.

To qualify for the Technology Procurement Manager position at ConnectOS, candidates should possess 7-10 years of relevant experience in technology procurement, focusing primarily on Software/SaaS and technology services. A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Business, Commerce, or Law is desirable. Familiarity with enterprise platforms and experience with tools like Ariba for sourcing and contract management are advantageous.

Essential skills for a Technology Procurement Manager at ConnectOS include extensive knowledge in the procurement process, particularly in technology capabilities, vendor risk management, and contract negotiation. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for socializing objectives within the organization and fostering positive vendor relationships. Moreover, analytical skills for monitoring performance and compliance will greatly benefit the role.

Joining ConnectOS as a Technology Procurement Manager comes with numerous perks such as a competitive salary, hybrid work setup, comprehensive medical and dental coverage starting on day one, paid vacation, and sick leave with a unique sick leave conversion policy. You can also enjoy financial assistance programs and complimentary office wellness facilities, ensuring a healthier, happier work life.

ConnectOS is recognized as a Great Place to Work, emphasizing respect, collaboration, and career growth for all employees. As a Technology Procurement Manager, you will be part of an awesome team committed to delivering global success to students and test-takers. The supportive and fun work culture, coupled with ongoing professional development opportunities, makes ConnectOS stand out as an employer of choice.

In your answer, highlight your specific experience in technology procurement, emphasizing any roles that involved managing procurement for software and technology services. Discuss particular projects where you were responsible for vendor management and contract negotiations to showcase your hands-on expertise.

Explain your approach to creating and monitoring compliance frameworks within vendor contracts. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with legal and project teams to ensure that contractual obligations are met and provide insights into any tools or methodologies you've employed.

Reflect on a specific challenge you encountered in the procurement process, focusing on how you identified and addressed the issue. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response and show your problem-solving skills.

Discuss your experience with procurement tools like Ariba or others relevant in the technology sector. Describe how you've utilized these tools to facilitate sourcing, contract management, and vendor analysis, showcasing your technical proficiency.

Share your strategy for prioritizing and managing multiple vendor contracts, focusing on how you assess risk, analyze vendor performance, and ensure alignment with the organization’s objectives. Mention any frameworks or criteria you use to determine priority.

In your answer, emphasize specific metrics that are crucial for tracking vendor performance, such as service level agreements (SLAs), compliance rates, and vendor scorecards. Explain how these metrics help in driving performance improvements and ensuring accountability.

Discuss your communication strategies and interpersonal skills that have enabled you to build and maintain strong vendor relationships. Share examples of successful collaborations and how those relationships benefitted your organization as a Technology Procurement Manager.

Outline your strategies for identifying and mitigating risks associated with procurement processes. Discuss tools or frameworks you've used to assess risks and how you've implemented corrective actions to address vendor issues.

Explain how you keep yourself informed about the latest trends and changes in the procurement landscape. Mention industry publications, professional networks, or continuing education that you engage with to enhance your knowledge as a Technology Procurement Manager.

In your answer, express your genuine interest in ConnectOS's mission and values. Highlight how your skills and experience align with the company's goals, and discuss the opportunities for growth and contribution that excite you about this role.