IT Vendor Management Specialist, 80-100% (ID1958)

The AO is a medically guided, not-for-profit organization, a global network of surgeons, and the world's leading education, innovation, and research organization specializing in the surgical treatment of trauma and musculoskeletal disorders. We are home to people from all over the world, from different backgrounds, with diverse talents and specialist areas. What binds us together is our passion for excellence, our dedication to our mission of improving patient care, and our understanding that we are stronger together: we are one AO. For more information, visit: IT Vendor Management Specialist, 80-100% (ID1958) Short Description The IT Vendor Managemnet Specialist is responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial management of all external IT partners, service providers, and technology vendors of the AO IT organization. The position ensures that all vendor delivered services meet the AO's expectations in quality, security, cost efficiency, compliance, and performance. The role collaborates closely with Procurement, Security, IT Architecture, Infrastructure, IT Business Applications, Service Desk, and key business stakeholders to guarantee end to end service continuity and a professional vendor ecosystem. Main Responsibilities Vendor & Third Party Management: Develop, implement, and continuously improve the AO's vendor management framework, including policies, governance, and lifecycle management Drive vendor consolidation Strongly support and drive changing vendors delivery method from a staff augmentation to a managed work approach Leads the full lifecycle in collaboration with internal stakeholders: sourcing, evaluation, onboarding, contracting, performance management, productivity, renewal, and offboarding Ensure compliance with AO information security and regulatory requirements, including periodic vendor audits and assessments Leading Microsoft capability within IT Contract, Commercial & Financial Management: Oversee contract negotiations in cooperation with procurement to secure cost effective and high quality services Manage vendor related budgeting, financial forecasting, spend tracking, and cost optimization with related counterparts in the IT organization Ensure alignment of all contracts with AO legal, procurement, and compliance requirements. SLA, KPI & Performance Management: Define service levels, KPIs, OLAs, and performance measures for all external providers. Conduct structured performance reviews with vendors, including escalations and corrective action plans. Ensure transparency of service quality through standardized reporting and dashboards. Risk, Security & Compliance: Ensure that all vendors adhere to AO's Information Security Policy, IAM requirements, data protection standards, and incident response expectations Work with the IT Security Manager to manage vendor related risk assessments, security audits, and continuous improvement measures Maintain a vendor risk register and ensure mitigation actions are implemented Cross Functional Collaboration with: IT Infrastructure on operational performance, SLA compliance, and service reliability IT Security on third party security assessments, IAM obligations, and audit readiness Service Desk & Workplace regarding partner activities, escalations, and operational alignment IT Architecture to ensure vendor solutions align with AO architectural principles IT Business Applications in relation with vendors for Application and Software developments Relationship, Communication & Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary strategic contact for all key IT vendors and service providers Ensure transparent and structured communication between vendors and AO stakeholders Facilitate business stakeholder engagement for vendor strategy, performance, and service improvements Reporting & Governance: Provide regular performance, financial, and risk reporting to IT Leadership and relevant governance bodies Ensure documentation, contracts, vendor records, and audit materials are maintained and up to date. Contribute to AO IT strategic planning through insights into vendor capabilities, risks, and market developments. Main Requirements Bachelor's or Master's degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field Additional training in negotiation, contract law, or financial management is an advantage Minimum 4 years of experience in IT vendor management Proven experience managing complex vendor ecosyst j4id10123742cv j4it0312cv j4iy26cv