Manager, IT Procurement

About the Role

As a key member of the Procurement team, this position focuses on the strategic procurement of Indirect (Non-Merchandise) Information Technology (IT) goods and services through negotiations, contract execution, supplier relationship management, spend analysis/management, change/transition management, and team member development. The Manager, IT Procurement demonstrates teamwork and commitment to the overall success of KnitWell Group and its brands, serving as a leader in strategic sourcing best practices and a subject matter expert in IT services.

This role contributes to the broad strategy driving the organization's ability to leverage total spend by partnering with business leaders to deliver incremental value and reduce the total cost of ownership.

Responsibilities

• Provide category insight, expertise, and education to maximize the value of sourced solutions:
  • Establish a global, high-performance sourcing capability, including ownership of category sourcing strategies for key IT vendors.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders via Category Forums to align with the category strategic roadmap and key initiatives.
  • Develop and leverage supplier relationships; identify vendors to meet business needs while minimizing costs and maximizing value.
  • Adapt to changing industry delivery models.
  • Create value through best-in-class sourcing practices.
• Strategy Development and Execution:
  • Develop and implement category sourcing strategies to support KnitWell’s business roadmap, providing strategic direction and scalable solutions.
  • Offer external perspectives (technology, industry, sourcing best practices, peer group, macro, and socioeconomics) relevant to KnitWell’s business needs.
  • Incorporate internal perspectives (business goals and legal/regulatory considerations) into operations and strategies.
• Contract Negotiation:
  • Develop negotiation strategies and lead negotiations for key IT-related contracts.
  • Partner with business leaders to identify optimal solutions on price, delivery, and service.
  • Manage the entire lifecycle of IT-related contracts, including:
    • Managing the CLM (Contract Lifecycle Management) pipeline.
    • Preparing RFPs and negotiating business terms of Master Service Agreements and Statements of Work.
    • Partnering with KWG Legal to resolve contract disputes.
• Directing Operations:
  • Manage and direct sourcing activities consistent with near-term and long-term strategic requirements, including financial and non-financial performance and regulatory compliance.
  • Use a scalable delivery model and standardized approach to sourcing.
  • Support clear organizational expectations related to KWG values, business/legal ethics, and financial controls.
  • Balance aggressive negotiation with building supplier relationships to align with KnitWell’s needs.
  • Stay current with developments in sourcing and the technology industry.
  • Ensure appropriate audit trails are embedded in processes for internal audit and performance controls.
• Leadership:
  • Lead and manage the performance of direct reports, focusing on their organizational capability, skill, and knowledge growth.
  • Drive data analysis, including financial and performance metrics, to support decisions.
  • Foster teamwork across functions and business groups to maximize development.
  • Develop and deliver presentations to executives on strategies and programs.

Requirements

• 3-5+ years of indirect procurement experience in a multi-concept environment, managing strategic sourcing of indirect goods and services on a global basis.
• 3+ years of procurement experience managing IT service vendors and contracts.
• 5+ years managing supplier relationships (indirect and/or direct procurement).
• Demonstrated abilities in delivering sourcing strategies and growing supplier relationships.
• Strong influential leadership skills.
• Experience with high-value, high-volume purchasing and contract negotiation across a range of services and/or commodities.
• Experience initiating and delivering successful cost-saving initiatives.
• Previous ERP & Procurement system experience (Oracle, SAP, DocuSign, Coupa preferred).
• Business and financial acumen.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Legal, or MBA/advanced degree preferred.
• Experience in a highly entrepreneurial and autonomous operating company culture is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Merchandise discount at select KnitWell Group brands, subject to each brand’s discount policies.
• Support for individual development and career mobility within the family of brands.
• Culture of giving back, including local volunteer opportunities, annual donation and volunteer match, and philanthropic activities.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(K) retirement plan.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid time off and holidays.

Pay

The target salary range for this role is $100,000 - $110,000. Any job offer will consider factors such as qualifications, relevant experience, and skills.

Schedule

This position works in a hybrid model, with required days worked in the Talbots office location in Hingham, MA as defined by business needs.