IT Vendor Manager

Job Description

• Client provides adaptable, secure, and cost‑effective technology services and solutions for the Department and its partners. Client manages all State of Iowa Executive Branch IT assets, projects, and resources, delivering high‑value technology and expertise to support Iowa's citizens and families.
• This position will play a key role in managing IT vendor relationships, ensuring contract compliance, and supporting strategic sourcing initiatives. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in IT vendor management, contract oversight, and risk mitigation.
• Minimum Qualification:
  
  Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university and a minimum of two years of full‑time relevant work experience.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key IT vendors and service providers.
• Serve as the escalation point for vendor‑related issues and disputes.
• Facilitate regular vendor performance and business reviews.

• Oversee negotiation, execution, and renewal of IT Statements of Work (SOWs).
• Ensure alignment with legal, financial, and operational standards.
• Monitor compliance with SLAs, KPIs, and contractual obligations.
• Collaborate with legal and procurement teams to ensure enforceable and favorable contract terms.

• Track vendor spend and ensure alignment with IT budgets and forecasts.
• Identify and manage vendor‑related risks, including cybersecurity, data privacy, and operational continuity.
• Support audits and compliance initiatives related to vendor engagements.

• Log and track vendor‑related issues, escalations, and change requests.
• Coordinate resolution of service disruptions or contract disputes.
• Document change control approvals for IT services or infrastructure.

• Schedule and document vendor meetings, demos, and onboarding sessions.
• Communicate vendor updates, risks, and contract changes to stakeholders.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Manage vendor relationships for software, hardware, cloud services, and IT consulting engagements – 3 years experience.
• Track SLAs, KPIs, and risk metrics; initiate corrective actions for underperformance – 3 years experience.
• Knowledge of IT procurement standards, including cybersecurity, data privacy, and accessibility – 3 years experience.
• Develop and maintain a strategic vendor portfolio aligned with the agency's IT roadmap – 3 years experience.
• Conduct market research to identify emerging technologies and qualified vendors – 3 years experience.
• Benchmark vendor pricing and service levels against industry standards to ensure value for money – 3 years experience.