Microsoft SAM Specialist / Software Asset Management Specialist

SUMMARY:
managing and optimizing the purchase, deployment, maintenance, utilization, and disposal of software

POSITION INFO:

We pride ourselves on our culture that is made up of impeccably skilled, passionate professionals. Our team varies from veterans of the industry to fresh faced young bloods who are ready to shape the future.

We currently have 2 positions available for SAM Specialist consultants.

Hybrid role, head office in Centurion

Job Description

The Microsoft SAM Specialist will be responsible for managing and optimizing the purchase, deployment, maintenance, utilization, and disposal of software applications within an organization. This role involves ensuring compliance with Microsoft licensing agreements, minimizing risks associated with software ownership, and maximizing IT investments.

Responsibilities:

• License Management: Maintain meticulous records of all software licenses to ensure compliance with Microsoft’s licensing terms. This includes tracking, documenting, and managing licenses throughout their lifecycle.
• Compliance Audits: Regularly perform internal audits and prepare for external audits to ensure all software usage is compliant with licensing agreements. Address any discrepancies and implement corrective actions.
• Cost Optimization: Analyze software utilization to identify underused licenses or opportunities for consolidation. Negotiate with vendors for the best pricing and terms to optimize software spend.
• Policy Development: Create and enforce policies for the acquisition, deployment, management, and retirement of software assets. Ensure these policies comply with licensing agreements and support the organization’s IT strategy.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the primary liaison between IT and other departments such as procurement, legal, and finance. Communicate the importance of SAM and its impact on the business.
• Vendor Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with Microsoft and other software vendors. Manage contracts, renewals, and resolve any licensing disputes.
• Training and Education: Develop and deliver training programs for staff on software licensing, compliance, and best practices in asset management.
• Reporting: Generate detailed reports on license utilization, compliance status, and financial implications for management review.
• Strategic Planning: Contribute to the IT strategic planning process, ensuring that SAM considerations are integrated into broader IT and business strategies.

Preferred Skills:

• Technical Expertise: Profound knowledge of Microsoft licensing, including an understanding of the complexities of volume licensing and the nuances of software use rights.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical abilities to interpret complex licensing terms and manage large datasets of licensing information.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex licensing concepts to stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Problem-Solving: Adept at identifying issues within the software asset lifecycle and developing innovative solutions to address them.
• Negotiation Skills: Proven negotiation skills with the ability to secure favorable terms and pricing from software vendors.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional attention to detail to accurately track and manage a large portfolio of software assets.
• Project Management: Solid project management skills to lead initiatives related to software asset management and compliance.
• Continuous Learning: A commitment to staying current with the latest developments in software licensing and asset management practices.