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Sr. Director of Technology Procurement

Job Description

Position Overview

We are seeking a visionary and strategic Sr. Director of Technology Procurement to be part of our team leading our technology procurement efforts, encompassing software, hardware, and services. The successful candidate will be instrumental in ensuring our technological needs are met efficiently, cost-effectively, and in alignment with our business objectives. As the Sr. Director of Technology Procurement, you will oversee the entire procurement lifecycle, from vendor selection and negotiation to contract management and supplier relationship development, ensuring our organization remains at the forefront of technological innovation and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement comprehensive procurement strategies for technology software, hardware, and services in line with organizational goals.

Identify and evaluate potential suppliers, conducting comprehensive market research to ensure competitive pricing and high-quality offerings.

Lead contract negotiations to secure favorable terms and conditions while minimizing risks for the organization.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including IT, legal, and finance, to ensure alignment of procurement activities with business requirements.

Monitor supplier performance and establish performance metrics to measure and drive continuous improvement.

Manage the end-to-end procurement process, including requisition, purchase order issuance, receipt, and invoice reconciliation.

Manage the end-to-end process for Software Asset Management including the linking of assets to contracts and hardware via Pearson’s ServiceNow platform.

Manage the strategic relationships that Pearson has with key technology suppliers such as our hyperscaler and core platform systems. This includes the management and administration of Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs).

Work with a cross functional team to ensure supplier rationalizing is performed and to work with key strategic partners on a deeper engagement and partnership.

Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and market dynamics to proactively identify opportunities for innovation and cost savings.

Provide guidance and mentorship to procurement team members, fostering their professional growth and development.

Ensure compliance with procurement policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

Optimize our network of preferred suppliers to ensure consistent access to services at the most competitive prices.

Assist on valuation of technology for any potential Mergers, Acquisitions or Divestitures with our global M&A process.

Analyze procurement data to identify trends, opportunities for improvement, and establish cost-saving targets.

Develop and implement plans to ensure year-over-year improved Purchase Price Variance (PPV).

Manage our Non Disclosure Agreement (NDA) process for new suppliers.

Support new product development and introductions, new supplier onboarding, and sustainable sourcing initiatives.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in business management, supply chain management, engineering, finance, or a related field. An MBA or relevant master's degree is a plus.

A minimum of 8+ years of experience in procurement-related roles at high-tech companies, with a focus on technology software, hardware, and services.

Negotiation and contract experience with large technology suppliers and Hyperscalers.

Proven track record of successful contract negotiations and supplier management.

In-depth knowledge of technology procurement trends, market dynamics, and vendor landscape.

Strong negotiation skills, with a demonstrated ability to secure advantageous terms and conditions.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and suppliers.

Proficiency in procurement software and tools, as well as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.

Solid understanding of contract law, risk management, and compliance.

Leadership experience, with the ability to motivate and guide a team toward achieving departmental and organizational goals.

Professional certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) are desirable.

Experience in managing procurement processes, including soliciting bids, negotiating contracts, and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services.

Ability to thrive in a high-volume, fast-paced environment and work on multiple initiatives simultaneously, adapting to changing priorities and requirements.

Expert communicator – ability to present complex topics in an effective and concise manner to influence across all levels internally and externally.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills – ability to analyze complex issues and industry information, identify risks/opportunities, develop options, and present effective solutions to stakeholders.

Partnering skills – proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external partners; be viewed as a sourcing expert and trusted business advisor.

Location

This position is based in our Durham, NC office with hybrid work options. Travel may be required (domestic and international) depending on business needs.

If you are a strategic thinker, skilled negotiator, and visionary leader ready to take on the challenge of optimizing our technology procurement, we invite you to apply and be a part of our dynamic and innovative team.

What to expect from Pearson

Did you know Pearson is one of the 10 most innovative education companies of 2022?

At Pearson, we add life to a lifetime of learning so everyone can realize the life they imagine. We do this by creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are on a journey to be 100 percent digital to meet the changing needs of the global population by developing a new strategy with ambitious targets. To deliver on our strategic vision, we have five business divisions that are the foundation for the long-term growth of the company: Assessment & Qualifications, Virtual Learning, English Language Learning, Workforce Skills and Higher Education. Alongside these, we have our corporate divisions: Digital & Technology, Finance, Global Corporate Marketing & Communications, Human Resources, Legal, Strategy and Direct to Consumer. Learn more at We are Pearson.

We value the power of an inclusive culture and also a strong sense of belonging. We promote a culture where differences are embraced, opportunities are accessible, consideration and respect are the norm and all individuals are supported in reaching their full potential. Through our talent, we believe that diversity, equity and inclusion make us a more innovative and vibrant place to work. People are at the center, and we are committed to building a workplace where talent can learn, grow and thrive.

Pearson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. We want a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business need. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other group protected by law. We strive for a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities.

To learn more about Pearson’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive workforce, navigate to: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Pearson.

If you are an individual with a disability and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our career site as a result of your disability, you may request reasonable accommodations by emailing TalentExperienceGlobalTeam@grp.pearson.com.

Note that the information you provide will stay confidential and will be stored securely. It will not be seen by those involved in making decisions as part of the recruitment process.

Job: GENERAL BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Organization: Corporate Strategy & Technology

Schedule: FULL_TIME

Workplace Type: On-site

Req ID: 17500