Contract and Vendor Manager – IT Procurement

About the role

The Contract and Vendor Manager will join the Procurement, Contract and Vendor Management team within the IT department of SNCB/NMBS (through Ypto). Operating in a complex, mission‑critical IT environment, you will lead strategic IT procurement initiatives and manage a portfolio of high‑value IT contracts.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate complex public procurement processes for IT goods and services, defining strategy, governing evaluation and conducting technical and contractual negotiations.
• Govern multi‑vendor IT contracts, monitoring performance against SLAs/KPIs, managing risks and ensuring service continuity.
• Design contractual solutions and pricing mechanisms based on deep understanding of internal client needs and market offerings.
• Manage relationships with strategic suppliers, handling escalations, dispute resolution and senior‑level negotiations.
• Maintain visibility on contract deadlines, risks, optimisation opportunities and financial impact across a critical IT contract portfolio.
• Contribute to cost control, contract optimisation and mitigation of contractual, financial and regulatory risks.
• Act as a trusted business partner and advisor to senior management, influencing strategic decisions.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Business Economics, Industrial Engineering, Commercial Engineering or Information Technology.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in complex IT environments as a Senior Contract Manager, Senior Buyer/Purchasing Manager or Project/Program Manager.
• Experience with public procurement and/or utility sectors, and strategic IT sourcing.
• Strong communication, document drafting and stakeholder‑management skills at all organisational levels.
• Proven ability to work autonomously, lead cross‑functional teams and influence senior decision‑makers.
• Fluent in Dutch, French and English.

What we offer

• Hybrid work model with remote flexibility and flexible working hours.
• 35 days of annual leave.
• Company car plus public‑transport season ticket.
• Target bonus and comprehensive insurance package (including hospitalization, dental care and outpatient costs for the whole family).
• Group insurance (supplementary pension, work disability, death) and accident‑at‑work coverage.
• Meal vouchers, eco‑vouchers and net allowances for remote work, car‑wash and internet.