Software Procurement Analyst (SME) - Chicago, IL

About E78

E78 is a leading provider of finance, accounting and technology solutions for middle-market businesses and financial sponsors. Our team delivers platinum-level advisory, talent, and managed services that address the critical finance, technology, and transformation challenges faced by corporate leaders and private equity sponsors across the middle market through the Fortune 500.

For the sixth consecutive year, E78 has made the Inc. 5000 list, at No. 734 in 2024, which includes a three-year revenue growth of 655%

We are a community of results-driven gamechangers, and our passion drives us to achieve success through meaningful work and inspires us to make a lasting impact.

E78 is headquartered in Oak Brook, IL with offices around the country. Come join our growing team!

A few reasons why 450 professionals are thriving at E78:

• Career advancement opportunities
• Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) - Which includes traditional vacation time and sick leave
• Industry leading maternity benefits, which also includes Parental Leave
• Bonus eligibility
• For every dollar contributed E78 will match up to 4%
• Highly competitive salaries
• 10 Company Paid Holidays
• Opportunity for professional growth
• Blue chip client logos to partner with
• A culture of support and inclusion that fosters collaboration and diversity
• World-class leadership committed to your development
• Extensive career experience - E78 employees work alongside mid-late career professionals with vast skillsets and expertise in their respective fields.
• Consistent team - Working with a single point of contact ensures a dependable team that is familiar with your business needs.
• Partnership alignment with goals - E78 prioritizes understanding and aligning with your goals to ensure success.
• Access to expert resources - E78 provides access to a robust partner ecosystem within the NetSuite ecosystem for consulting and support during implementations and beyond.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and knowledgeable Software Procurement Analyst and SME to join our team. This position is responsible for overseeing the procurement of software solutions, ensuring alignment with business needs, managing vendor relationships, and advising on best practices for software acquisition. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of software procurement processes, contract negotiation, licensing models, and the ability to serve as an internal and external expert and advisor.

Key Responsibilities

Software Procurement Management:

• Oversee the end-to-end software procurement process, from requirements gathering to final contract execution.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand software needs and ensure optimal solutions are identified and sourced.
• Conduct thorough market research to identify potential software vendors and solutions.
• Prepare and issue Requests for Proposal (RFPs), Requests for Information (RFIs), and evaluate vendor proposals.
• Lead negotiations with software vendors to secure favorable terms and pricing.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, legal regulations, and industry standards in all software procurement activities.

Vendor Management:

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with software vendors and third-party providers.
• Act as a liaison between vendors and internal teams to address any concerns or issues.

Contract and Licensing Management:

• Review and negotiate software contracts, ensuring terms are clear and favorable to the organization.
• Advise on the most cost-effective licensing models and purchasing strategies based on organizational needs.
• Cost Management:
• Monitor software spending to ensure alignment with budget goals and maximize ROI.
• Identify opportunities for cost optimization through volume discounts, long-term agreements, and alternative procurement strategies.

Subject Matter Expertise:

• Serve as the go-to expert for all matters related to software procurement and licensing.
• Provide internal and external consultation on software acquisition best practices, industry trends, and market dynamics.
• Reporting and Documentation:
• Maintain comprehensive records of procurement activities, including vendor evaluations, contracts, renewals, and audits.
• Work with Financial Analyst to prepare reports to be presented to external clients.

Continuous Improvement:

• Stay up to date with the latest trends in software procurement, licensing models, and emerging technologies.
• Recommend and implement process improvements to streamline the procurement workflow and improve efficiency.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in business, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Professional in Supply Management - CPSM) is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in software procurement, software asset management, or IT procurement.
• Proven experience in negotiating software contracts, managing vendor relationships, and overseeing software license compliance.
• Strong understanding of various software licensing models (per user, per device, subscription-based, etc.) and related procurement processes.
• Experience with software management tools and procurement systems is highly desirable.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Ability to explain complex procurement processes to non-technical stakeholders.
• Occasional travel as required

Preferred Qualifications

• In-depth understanding of software industry trends and emerging technologies.
• Familiarity with IT security and compliance requirements related to software procurement.
• Experience with SaaS (Software as a Service) procurement and management.
• Knowledge of contract law and intellectual property rights in relation to software licensing.
• Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills and the ability to handle complex and large data sets.
• Proficient in financial modeling, valuation, and accounting principles and methodologies.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and detail-oriented and the ability to work independently and under pressure.

Core Competencies

1. Entrepreneurial focus

2. Business thinking

3. Functional/technical expertise

4. Team player

5. Change agility

6. Organization & planning

7. Drive/energy

E78 is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health choices), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as someone with a disability, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws