About Gruve
Gruve is an innovative software services startup dedicated to transforming enterprises to AI powerhouses. We specialize in cybersecurity, customer experience, cloud infrastructure, and advanced technologies such as Large Language Models (LLMs). Our mission is to assist our customers in their business strategies utilizing their data to make more intelligent decisions. As a well-funded early-stage startup, Gruve offers a dynamic environment with strong customer and partner networks.
About the Role
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to lead our Vendor Management Office (VMO) for software and SaaS vendors. This role is responsible for managing the entire vendor lifecycle of strategic technology partners, including contract management, performance monitoring, compliance, and relationship management. The ideal candidate will have deep knowledge of SaaS solutions, cloud technologies, and experience managing large strategic vendors such as Uber, Amazon, and Microsoft.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the full vendor lifecycle for SaaS and technology partners, including requirement gathering, contract execution, performance monitoring, and compliance.
- Develop and maintain a comprehensive vendor performance framework to ensure service delivery excellence and alignment with organizational objectives.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with strategic technology vendors, acting as the primary point of contact to resolve issues and drive continuous improvement.
- Lead quarterly business reviews (QBRs) and other management forums with key vendors.
- Manage enterprise software licensing lifecycle across infrastructure platforms including OS, virtualization, cloud, security, database, collaboration, and productivity tools.
- Ensure optimization of software licensing models (subscription, enterprise agreements, hybrid-use benefits, SaaS vs perpetual) to control costs and improve utilization efficiency.
- Lead vendor negotiations for infrastructure licensing agreements such as Microsoft Enterprise Agreements (EA), CSP programs, AWS/Azure licensing models, and other strategic OEM partnerships.
- Negotiate complex vendor contracts and service agreements to secure favorable terms and ensure operational efficiency.
- Lead RFP/RFI processes to identify and select strategic SaaS and software vendors, ensuring alignment with business and technology requirements.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders across IT, product, and business teams to align vendor strategy with organizational goals.
- Drive strategic sourcing initiatives focused on SaaS adoption, cost optimization, process improvement, and innovative vendor solutions.
- Ensure all vendors comply with company policies, service level agreements (SLAs), and performance standards.
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in business administration from IIMs, IT, Supply Chain, or related field.
- 10+ years of experience in vendor management, preferably with SaaS/software vendors.
Preferred Qualifications
- Proven experience managing large strategic technology vendors (e.g., Uber, Amazon, Microsoft).
- Managed the Software Asset Management (SAM) portfolio covering budget planning, program execution, operations, and resourcing, while driving optimization initiatives to achieve targeted cost savings. Also led enterprise-wide digital ITSM transformation initiatives.
- Strong knowledge of SaaS solutions, cloud technologies, and IT vendor management.
- Exceptional negotiation, stakeholder management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and problem-solving abilities.
- Familiarity with VMO tools and vendor management platforms.
Why Gruve
At Gruve, we foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best work. If you’re passionate about technology and eager to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.
Gruve is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and thank all who apply; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.