IT Vendor Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the interconnected world of IT, the role of an IT Vendor Manager has become increasingly pivotal.

As technology evolves and businesses become more reliant on third-party providers, the need for skilled professionals who can effectively manage these relationships and ensure maximum value is more pronounced than ever.

So, what does it truly mean to be an IT Vendor Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of IT vendor management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable IT Vendor Manager job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

IT Vendor Manager Duties and Responsibilities

IT Vendor Managers are responsible for overseeing and managing relationships with technology vendors that supply IT products and services.

They play a key role in IT operations, ensuring that vendor-provided products and services meet the needs and standards of the organization.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Identify and select IT vendors that meet the organization’s needs
• Negotiate and manage contracts with IT vendors
• Maintain strong relationships with IT vendors and manage vendor performance
• Ensure that IT vendors deliver products and services in line with contractual obligations
• Work closely with IT and business teams to understand and anticipate IT equipment, hardware, and software needs
• Collaborate with finance and procurement teams to ensure cost-effective purchasing and renewal of IT resources
• Monitor the IT market to stay updated with the latest trends, products, and prices
• Handle issues related to IT vendor service failures and conflicts
• Assess and manage risks associated with IT vendors
• Prepare and present reports on vendor performance and cost to senior management

 

IT Vendor Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a seasoned IT Vendor Manager to oversee the selection of IT vendors and the ongoing management of vendor relationships.

As the IT Vendor Manager, your responsibilities will include negotiating contracts, ensuring delivery of IT services as agreed upon, and managing the performance of our IT vendors.

The ideal candidate should have strong negotiating skills, excellent interpersonal skills, and experience in managing vendors in the IT sector.

Ultimately, the IT Vendor Manager should ensure we receive the highest quality of services at the most cost-effective rates.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement IT vendor sourcing strategies
• Negotiate contracts and terms with IT vendors
• Monitor and manage the performance of IT vendors
• Ensure IT vendors deliver high-quality services in line with contracts
• Collaborate with IT team and other departments for vendor selection and management
• Resolve any issues and problems with IT vendors
• Evaluate and manage risks related to IT vendors
• Develop strong relationships with IT vendors
• Continuously monitor the IT vendor market for changes and advancements
• Ensure compliance with regulations and company policies

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an IT Vendor Manager or similar role
• Strong knowledge of IT products, services, and market trends
• Excellent negotiation and contract management skills
• Ability to manage and resolve conflicts
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Bachelor’s degree in IT, Business Administration, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: IT Vendor Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Travel may be required for vendor meetings or site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the IT Director or Chief Information Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $98,500 minimum to $155,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an IT Vendor Manager Do?

An IT Vendor Manager is a specialized professional role in the field of IT Management.

They primarily work for corporations across different industries, or IT firms, and sometimes as independent consultants.

Their primary responsibility is to manage and oversee the relationship between the organization and its IT vendors.

They select, monitor, and manage the performance of IT vendors, ensuring that they meet the contractual agreements and deliver the required services within the defined timeframes and quality standards.

IT Vendor Managers negotiate contracts with vendors, ensuring that they meet the organization’s needs and are compliant with the company’s policies and standards.

They are responsible for risk management, including identifying potential risks and developing contingency plans to mitigate them.

They also regularly review and evaluate vendor performance, taking necessary actions to address any issues and improve the quality of services.

In addition, IT Vendor Managers are responsible for managing the IT vendor portfolio and identifying opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.

They are also involved in strategic planning, forecasting, and budgeting related to IT vendor management.

Lastly, they may also liaise with other departments or teams within the organization, such as procurement, legal, and finance, to ensure smooth and efficient vendor management processes.

 

IT Vendor Manager Qualifications and Skills

An effective IT Vendor Manager should possess a range of technical, business, and interpersonal skills, including:

• Strong communication and negotiation skills to manage contracts and relationships with IT vendors, ensuring that the organization is receiving optimal quality and value from services.
• Experience in strategic sourcing and vendor management, including vendor evaluation, contract negotiation, and performance monitoring.
• Technical understanding of IT systems and infrastructure to make informed decisions regarding vendor selection and management.
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple vendor relationships concurrently, maintaining a high level of attention to detail and organizational skill.
• Ability to analyze and interpret contract terms and conditions, as well as financial data to monitor vendor performance and ensure cost-efficiency.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address issues with vendors and to develop solutions that benefit both the organization and the vendor.
• Interpersonal and relationship-building skills to maintain positive and productive relationships with vendors.
• Knowledge of IT industry trends and developments to ensure the organization is leveraging the most current and effective solutions.

 

IT Vendor Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level IT Vendor Manager positions typically require 1 to 3 years of experience in an IT-related field, with hands-on experience in dealing with IT vendors.

This could be in roles such as IT Procurement Specialist, IT Contract Administrator, or IT Analyst.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are generally required for mid-level IT Vendor Manager roles.

At this stage, they are expected to have gained a significant amount of experience in vendor management, contract negotiations, and risk management.

Prior experience in project management, IT procurement, or supply chain management is also beneficial.

For senior IT Vendor Manager roles, employers usually look for candidates with more than 5 years of experience, preferably within a large-scale IT environment.

These candidates are typically expected to have developed strong leadership and strategic planning skills, with considerable experience in managing multiple vendors and cross-functional teams.

Specialized certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Technology Procurement Executive (CTPE) can also strengthen a candidate’s profile, regardless of their level of experience.

In addition to these experience requirements, a strong understanding of IT processes, industry trends, and excellent negotiation and communication skills are crucial for all levels of IT Vendor Manager roles.

 

IT Vendor Manager Education and Training Requirements

IT Vendor Managers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in business administration, computer science, information systems, or a related field.

A foundational understanding of IT systems, project management, and business strategy is essential for this role.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or an equivalent qualification, specifically with a focus on information systems or technology management.

Additionally, certifications such as Certified Technology Procurement Executive (CTPE), Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), or Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) can provide an advantage.

Experience with contract negotiations, IT procurement and understanding of vendor management principles are also crucial.

Continuing education is important in this role as technology and vendor landscapes evolve rapidly.

IT Vendor Managers are often encouraged to participate in professional development opportunities to keep up with industry changes and advancements.

Moreover, strong communication and relationship-building skills are essential, as this role requires constant interaction with vendors and internal stakeholders.

 

IT Vendor Manager Salary Expectations

An IT Vendor Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $112,204 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary depending on factors such as industry experience, certifications, geographic location, and the specific company they work for.

 

IT Vendor Manager Job Description FAQs

What is the role of an IT Vendor Manager?

An IT Vendor Manager is responsible for managing relationships with suppliers of IT products and services.

They strategize and negotiate contracts, manage vendor performances, and ensure consistent service delivery.

They also play a key role in cost management and risk mitigation.

 

What skills does an IT Vendor Manager need?

IT Vendor Managers should possess excellent negotiation skills for securing the best deals.

They should have strong communication and relationship-building skills for managing vendor relationships.

Analytical skills are essential for evaluating vendors based on their performance and cost-effectiveness.

Additionally, they should have a good understanding of IT products and services.

 

Do IT Vendor Managers need specific qualifications?

Most companies require IT Vendor Managers to have a bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, or a related field.

Experience in IT procurement or vendor management is also desirable.

Some companies may prefer candidates with certification in procurement or supply chain management.

 

What should you look for in an IT Vendor Manager resume?

A strong IT Vendor Manager resume should reflect the candidate’s ability to manage relationships with vendors and negotiate contracts effectively.

Look for a track record of cost savings or improved service levels as a result of their vendor management efforts.

Experience in IT and understanding of technical specifications of IT products and services can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good IT Vendor Manager?

A good IT Vendor Manager should be a strategic thinker, able to foresee the company’s IT needs and choose vendors accordingly.

They should be good negotiators, capable of securing the best deals.

They should also be good relationship builders, able to maintain productive relationships with vendors.

Analytical skills are also important for assessing vendor performance and managing costs.

 

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look into the world of an IT Vendor Manager.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about managing vendors.

It’s about orchestrating the technology of tomorrow, one vendor relationship at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive IT Vendor Manager job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to leap ahead.

But why limit yourself?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your golden ticket to crafting precision-based listings or refining your resume to a T.

Keep this in mind:

Every vendor relationship forms part of the larger tech ecosystem.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become an IT Vendor Manager (Complete Guide)

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