Procurement & RFP Analyst

Position Title:              Contract Analyst – Technology Sourcing
Location:                      Onsite, Downtown Columbus, OH
Role:                                Contract to Hire
Rate:                                $45-$50hr (benefits included, no PTO)
Candidates:                 US Citizens or Green Card Holders only
(no C2C or employer-sponsored immigration support)

Description:
RFP sourcing experience is required, including experience redlining and negotiating contracts.  Strong communication and facilitation skills are essential, with the ability to manage sourcing events involving multiple business stakeholders—primarily for technology-based software and hardware solutions.Job Summary:
The Contract Analyst serves as a subject matter expert in sourcing strategy and procurement for technology goods and services supporting AEP’s IT business units. This individual will develop sourcing strategies, negotiate business deals, manage supplier performance, ensure contract compliance, and mitigate risks. The ideal candidate will partner closely with category managers and cross-functional teams to execute competitive sourcing events and deliver maximum value across the enterprise.Essential Job Functions & Tasks:

• Source and procure technology software, hardware, and related services with complex or high-value requirements.
• Assess business needs and develop procurement plans aligned with category management strategies.
• Execute sourcing strategies under category manager guidance, leveraging market and supplier analysis.
• Lead RFP and RFI processes, coordinating cross-functional teams during sourcing events.
• Develop negotiation strategies and lead contract negotiations with vendors and suppliers.
• Draft and redline moderately complex contracts, ensuring clarity in pricing, terms, and performance criteria.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with business partners and suppliers to support category goals.
• Partner with internal service teams to align transactional and operational support with category strategies.
• Apply contract knowledge to minimize risk and maximize overall contract value.

Basic Qualifications:
Education: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, Finance, Supply Chain, or related field.

Experience:

• At least 5 years of experience in strategic sourcing, contracting, or procurement within complex organizations. Prior experience in supply chain category management, especially within utilities or technology, is strongly preferred.

Additional Requirements:

• Proven RFP management and contract negotiation experience.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and time management abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and the ability to facilitate cross-functional collaboration.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multiple sourcing projects simultaneously.
• Experience with technology-based procurement (software, hardware, IT services).