Procurement Specialist

Procurement SpecialistVisa status: U.S. Citizens and those authorized to work in the U.S. are encouraged to apply. Tax Terms: W2, 1099 Corp-Corp or 3rd Parties: Yes Procurement SpecialistNumber of positions: 1 role has to be in Bridgewater with travel to NYCLocation: Bridgewater, NJThe candidate has to work from the BW office after COVID. For 1 role, candidate has to travel to NYC on need basis.Job DescriptionManaging and/or supporting all IT vendors, licensing, and maintenance agreements. This position will work to build a portfolio of current IT Vendors. The role will also be responsible for creating process for ongoing review of IT vendors, licensing, and maintenance agreements. The successful candidate will be a self-starter, detail oriented, strong written/verbal communication skills, customer service oriented, and have the ability to interpret, review and high-level negotiate technology related contracts in relation to software, hardware, telecommunications and other IT equipment and services.As an IT Procurement executive, you will:Responsible for managing maintenance/service agreements across software, hardware, telecommunications and other IT related equipment and services.Partner with IT Teams and other departments to negotiate terms with vendors, to mitigate risk and maximize price efficiencies.Work closely with IT and Finance departments to ensure that invoicing and payment occur on a timely and accurate basis.Conducts high-level negotiation of pricing to leverage volume purchasing and achieve highest cost savings.Deep understanding on statement of work clauses and has a capacity to redefine terms which could be favorable to Cognizant.Proactively monitor when the terms of agreements are nearing expiration. Discuss on-going requirements with IT Management.Serve as a point reference to interpret the terms of the agreement, addressing any questions that may arise.Develop and maintain central tracking and reporting mechanism for all contracts and agreements within the responsibility of IT Procurement ensuring annual renewals are completed.Maintain files of supporting documentation including original paper documentation as required.Willingly and occasionally, work nights and weekends to better support the business.Build strong relationships within all areas of the business to promote collaboration.A Team Player – you understand the basics tenants of being a great teammate including proper time management, communication and attendance.As an IT Procurement executive, you must have:A Bachelor's degree in Business or Computer Science.7-10 years of IT Procurement/Sourcing support experience.Must have understanding of software licensing and IT networks and infrastructure, data center technology, end user, mobile, web and social media technology and terms.Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain technical contractual aspects to senior leaders within and external to the IT Organization.Excellent customer service, decision-making, and organizational skills.What else you can expect:Physical Demands:Requires sitting or standing for extended periods of time.Extensive use of a computer and repetitive hand movements in the performance of duties.Occasional lifting and carrying of material weighing up to twenty pounds may be requiredEquipment Operated: Personal computer, printers, fax, copier and telephone