Lead Vendor Management

CREATIVITY IS OUR SUPERPOWER. It’s our heritage and it’s also our future. Because we don’t just make toys. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences and develop children through play. Mattel is at its best when every member of our team feels respected, included, and heard—when everyone can show up as themselves and do their best work every day. We value and share an infinite range of ideas and voices that evolve and broaden our perspectives with a reach that extends into all our brands, partners, and suppliers. Software Asset Management (SAM) Associate Manager – India Technology Center (MTIC) Position Summary The SAM Associate Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of software asset management at Mattel’s MTIC, supporting global SAM strategy and compliance goals. This role focuses on executing SAM lifecycle activities—software discovery, license reconciliation, optimization, and audit readiness—while collaborating with global and regional stakeholders. The ideal candidate brings strong technical and operational knowledge in SAM tools (ServiceNow, Flexera One, Nexthink) and can drive data quality, process efficiency, and compliance excellence. Location: Hyderabad Department: Global Technology – IT - GTO Reports To: Global Software Asset Management Manager Employment Type: Full-Time Key Responsibilities Operational Responsibilities • Support the delivery of offshore SAM operations in alignment with global governance. • Execute software visibility, usage, and compliance monitoring through Nexthink and Flexera. • Implement automation and data hygiene initiatives under direction from global SAM leadership. • Ensure adherence to global SAM processes, service levels, and audit controls. • Provide regular operational updates and performance metrics to the SAM Manager. Governance and Compliance • Maintain and reconcile software inventories in ServiceNow and Flexera platforms. • Conduct routine license reconciliation for Tier-1 vendors (Microsoft, Adobe, Oracle, IBM, etc.). • Support reclamation processes and compliance remediation activities. • Assist in preparing documentation for internal and external audits. • Identify non-compliant or Shadow IT usage and escalate to global governance leads. Financial and Vendor Management • Collaborate with Procurement and Finance teams to support renewals, cost tracking, and true-ups. • Provide data and analysis on software consumption and optimization opportunities. • Assist in maintaining cost transparency and ROI tracking for SAM initiatives. Reporting and Continuous Improvement • Generate operational reports and dashboards using Flexera and ServiceNow data. • Track compliance KPIs and present performance insights to leadership. • Recommend process enhancements and automation opportunities. • Participate in global SAM process improvement initiatives. Team and Collaboration • Mentor junior SAM analysts and foster teamwork within the MTIC SAM unit. • Collaborate with ITSM, Procurement, Finance, and Security teams for end-to-end asset management processes. • Support onboarding, training, and knowledge-sharing within the SAM function. Qualifications Required • Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Business, or equivalent. • 10 years of experience in SAM/ITAM operations, with at least 5 years in supervisory or lead role. • Hands-on experience with ServiceNow SAM, Flexera One, and Nexthink. • Strong analytical, reporting, and communication skills. • Familiarity with global software licensing models and audit processes. Preferred • Certifications such as CSAM, ITAM Foundation, or ITIL v4. • Experience working in a global enterprise or managed service environment. • Exposure to automation tools or Power BI for reporting. Why Join Mattel Purpose-Driven Impact: Make a direct impact on Mattel’s mission to inspire the next generation through play, while shaping the future of software governance and technology accountability within a globally recognized brand. Global Collaboration: Join a diverse and distributed team spanning continents and time zones. Partner with global business units, technology leaders, and finance stakeholders to influence enterprise-wide decision-making. Innovation and Growth: Drive innovation in SAM automation, analytics, and digital transformation. Be part of a company that encourages experimentation, continuous learning, and cross-functional development. Flexibility and Balance: Benefit from a hybrid work model that promotes high performance, well-being, and inclusion, with flexibility to work remotely within India. This role provides a platform to grow into global SAM leadership by driving operational excellence and continuous improvement at Mattel’s strategic technology hub. Don’t meet every single requirement? At Mattel, we are dedicated to an inclusive workplace and a culture of belonging. If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. How We Work: We are a purpose driven company aiming to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. We live up to our purpose employing the following behaviors: We collaborate: Being a part of Mattel means being part of one team with shared values and common goals. Every person counts and working closely together always brings better results. Partnership is our process and our collective capabilities is our superpower. We innovate: At Mattel we always aim to find new and better ways to create innovative products and experiences. No matter where you work in the organization, you can always make a difference and have real impact. We welcome new ideas and value new initiatives that challenge conventional thinking. We execute: We are a performance-driven company. We strive for excellence and are focused on pursuing best-in-class outcomes. We believe in accountability and ownership and know that our people are at their best when they are empowered to create and deliver results. Our Approach to Flexible Work: We embrace a flexible work model designed to empower a culture of growth, optimism, and wellbeing, where every employee can reach their full potential. Combining purposeful in-person collaboration with flexibility, our focus is to optimize performance and drive connection for moments that matter. Who We Are: Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Thomas & Friends, UNO, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox, Monster High, MEGA and Polly Pocket, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Mattel’s award-winning workplace culture has been recognized by Forbes, Fast Company, Newsweek, Great Place to Work, TIME, and more. Visit us at https://jobs.mattel.com/ and www.instagram.com/MattelCareers . Mattel is an Equal Opportunity Employer where we want you to bring your authentic self to work every day. We welcome all job seekers, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment. Videos to watch: The Culture at Mattel Corporate Philanthropy