Sourcing Specialist IV

Aquent is partnering with a leading organization at the forefront of delivering essential services and driving innovation in the critical infrastructure and technology sectors. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to a mission-critical function that directly impacts operational efficiency and strategic growth, shaping the future of technological capabilities across vital industries.

Are you a seasoned sourcing professional with a passion for technology and a knack for strategic negotiation? Through Aquent, you have the chance to play a pivotal role in shaping our partner's technology procurement landscape. In this dynamic position, you will be instrumental in driving significant cost savings, optimizing vendor relationships, and ensuring the acquisition of cutting-edge technology solutions that power operations and future growth. Your expertise will directly influence the ability to innovate and maintain a competitive edge by leading large, complex technology RFQs across software, hardware, and telecommunications.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with stakeholders to develop comprehensive sourcing strategies and procurement requirements for technology products and services.
• Lead competitive sourcing events, including RFPs, RFIs, RFQs, and thorough supplier evaluations, ensuring optimal value.
• Expertly negotiate critical technology contracts, including software licenses, cloud agreements, Master Service Agreements (MSAs), and Statements of Work (SOWs).
• Identify and execute impactful cost savings, cost avoidance, and operational and maintenance (O&M) reduction opportunities.
• Evaluate diverse supplier proposals and recommend strategic solutions that deliver best value while effectively mitigating risk.
• Collaborate seamlessly with suppliers and internal stakeholders to proactively resolve commercial, contractual, and performance-related issues.
• Develop and nurture strong supplier relationships to drive performance excellence, foster innovation, and ensure continuous improvement.
• Conduct in-depth market research, benchmarking, and spend analysis to inform and support critical sourcing decisions.
• Coordinate effectively with Legal, Cybersecurity, Finance, Privacy, and Enterprise Architecture teams throughout the entire procurement lifecycle.
• Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving licensing models to provide strategic sourcing guidance and foresight.
• Lead high-value, complex procurement initiatives and serve as a trusted technology sourcing subject matter expert, guiding key decisions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and extensive experience.
• 5-7 years of progressive experience in strategic sourcing or procurement, with a strong, dedicated focus on technology.
• Demonstrated strong negotiation, contract management, and sophisticated supplier relationship management skills.
• Proven integrity, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to ethical business practices.
• Exceptional ability to manage multiple complex projects, competing priorities, and critical deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong analytical, advanced problem-solving, and decisive decision-making capabilities.
• Adept at building influential relationships, influencing diverse stakeholders, and achieving cross-functional team alignment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, tailored for executive, technical, and supplier audiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, specialized procurement systems, spend analysis tools, and modern sourcing platforms.
• In-depth knowledge of strategic sourcing, effective supplier management, and technology procurement best practices.
• Extensive experience negotiating complex agreements for software licensing, cloud services, telecommunications, hardware, and professional services.
• Comprehensive understanding of commercial, legal, financial, cybersecurity, and vendor risk considerations within the procurement lifecycle.
• Proven ability to consistently identify and successfully implement cost savings, cost avoidance, and O&M reduction opportunities.

About Aquent Talent:

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands. Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits!

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.