Director - Software Asset Management

The Director of Software Asset Management (SAM) is responsible for developing and leading the global SAM strategy to ensure full compliance with software licensing agreements, optimize software usage, and manage vendor relationships. You will oversee the implementation of a standardized SAM framework, monitoring the usage of all software products, publishing reports to the leadership along with optimization opportunities, and managing audits across all regions where Cyient is operating. You will be responsible for strategic leadership & governance by developing and implementing a global SAM framework and governance model. This includes defining standardized processes, roles, responsibilities, and KPIs across all zones, as well as creating and maintaining RACI matrices involving cross-functional teams such as Infrastructure, Procurement, and Compliance. In terms of compliance & audit management, you will ensure 100% compliance with software license agreements across all vendors. This will involve leading external audit engagements, including data collection, validation, planning, and reporting. Additionally, you will create baseline inventory reports to reconcile entitlements vs. deployments. Vendor & contract management will be another key responsibility, where you will lead vendor negotiations, define SLAs, review contracts and key clauses, onboard vendors, provide training, communicate KPIs and targets, create vendor risk matrices, and assess exposure with major publishers. Managing a budget of $2MM USD, including CAPEX and OPEX, overseeing P&L for SAM initiatives, and driving cost optimization will fall under your budget & financial oversight responsibilities. You will also forecast monthly demand and supply for software assets. Your role will involve procurement & licensing tasks such as participating in global deal negotiations, summarizing entitlements from various sources, and educating stakeholders on licensing models and compliance obligations. Reporting & analytics duties will include generating monthly and on-demand SAM reports, monitoring team KPIs, reporting performance metrics regularly, and reporting usage for user-based licenses like Authorized, Concurrent, and Floating. In terms of team development & training, you will recruit and train members aligned with fiscal year plans, design long-term competency-building programs and performance development, and conduct periodic CSAT surveys to implement feedback-driven improvements. Qualifications required for this role include a Bachelors or Masters in Computer Science, IT, Business, or related field, preferred certifications like ITIL, CSAM, IAITAM, ISO 19770, 15+ years of experience in IT Asset Management with 7+ years in a leadership role, and strong analytical, negotiation, presentation, and communication skills. Preferred skills for the Director of SAM position include experience in global operations and multi-region compliance, a strong understanding of software lifecycle and asset optimization, and the ability to manage cross-functional teams and drive strategic initiatives.,