Morgan Stanley | Director - Indirect Sourcing Manager (Corporate Services) | Mumbai, India | 6+ Years | Best in Industry
Morgan Stanley - Director - Indirect Sourcing Manager (Corporate Services)
Primary Location: Non-Japan Asia-India-Maharashtra-Mumbai
Education Level: Bachelor's Degree
Job: Other
Employment Type: Full Time
Job Level: Director
Description
We are seeking candidates to join our Global Supplier Services team within Corporate Services as an Indirect Sourcing Manager responsible for managing Indirect sourcing activities. Commodities include Professional Services, Benefits, Marketing, Construction & Facilities Management.
The Corporate Services division provides solutions enabling Morgan Stanley's workforce across global workplace locations to effectively support and deliver value to our business clients. This Director-level position sits within Firmwide Sourcing and is responsible for all elements of the Source to Contract process, including:
- Business demand management
- Supplier management
- Competitive bidding
- Sourcing project management
- Negotiations
- Contracting
Morgan Stanley is an industry leader in financial services, known for mobilizing capital to help governments, corporations, institutions and individuals around the world achieve their financial goals.
Are you interested in joining a team that's eager to create, innovate, and make an impact on the world?
What you'll do in the role:
- Facilitate new supplier engagements and service/product renewals focusing on assigned category and strategic suppliers.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to business stakeholders and work collaboratively with technology colleagues.
- Develop sound sourcing and commodity strategies that drive business value and mitigate risk.
- Maximize commercial impact through competitive bids and benchmarking/advisory.
- Analyze supplier proposals and negotiate best-in-class contract terms and value propositions.
- Work cross-functionally with Finance, Legal, and Compliance to draft and execute contracts.
- Complete documentation and system requirements as needed to enable the Source to Pay process.
Qualifications
What you'll bring to the role:
- Bachelor's degree
- At least 6 years of relevant experience in Indirect sourcing positions. Demonstrated subject matter expertise in at least one or more commodity areas:
- Experience in the Professional Services Commodity, including drafting complex Statements of Work.
- Experience in the execution of large and complex Benefits Agreements, Learning and Development Commodity, and/or Marketing and Business Development Sourcing.
- Experience in Security Services, Design and Construction, Amenities, and Move Management with demonstrated thought leadership in designated categories.
- Commercial negotiation and influencing skills to drive savings and deliver value to stakeholders.
- Experience in contract interpretation, analysis, and drafting across Master and Sub-Agreements.
- Strong Sourcing skills and the ability to execute across all elements of the Source to Manage lifecycle.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills, including the ability to develop and nurture both business and supplier relationships.
Additionally, the successful candidate must:
- Be highly motivated, proactive, and take ownership of tasks and projects.
- Possess strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite of products.
- Have experience using procurement tools such as Ariba.
ApplyURL: https://ms.taleo.net/careersection/2/jobdetail.ftl?job=3258378&src=Eightfold
Prepare for real-time interview for : Morgan Stanley | Director - Indirect Sourcing Manager (Corporate Services) | Mumbai, India | 6+ Years | Best in Industry with these targeted questions & answers to showcase your skills and experience in first attempt, with 100% confidence.
Question:
How do you handle a project where the requirements change halfway through development?
Answer:
When requirements change midway through a project, I first assess the impact on the timeline, budget, and resources. I work with stakeholders to understand the reasons for the change and adjust the project plan accordingly. I communicate with the team to ensure they are aware of the new direction and re-prioritize tasks to focus on the most critical updates. I also review the project scope to ensure that any additional requests are managed carefully to avoid scope creep. By staying flexible and communicative, I help the team adapt without losing momentum.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to onboard a new team member in the middle of a project. How did you ensure they integrated smoothly?
Answer:
When onboarding a new team member mid-project, I ensure they have a clear understanding of the project’s current status and goals. I provide them with any necessary documentation and a walkthrough of the project’s key components. I also pair them with an experienced team member who can offer guidance and answer questions. Regular check-ins with the new hire help me monitor their progress and address any challenges. By providing structured support and ensuring clear communication, I help them integrate quickly and contribute effectively.
Question:
How do you handle competing demands from multiple stakeholders with differing priorities?
Answer:
When faced with competing demands, I first seek to understand each stakeholder’s priorities and the rationale behind their requests. I assess how each demand impacts the overall project objectives and then facilitate a discussion to align stakeholder expectations. By focusing on the project’s critical goals and communicating the trade-offs, I help stakeholders agree on a compromise. If necessary, I involve leadership to make decisions on prioritization. Clear communication and collaboration are key to managing these competing priorities effectively.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to recover a project that was falling behind schedule. What steps did you take?
Answer:
When a project was falling behind schedule, I started by identifying the causes of the delays, such as bottlenecks or resource constraints. I then revised the project plan, re-prioritizing tasks and reallocating resources where necessary. I communicated the new plan to stakeholders and the team to ensure alignment on the revised timeline. I also implemented regular status updates and tighter progress tracking to avoid further delays. By addressing the issues directly and adjusting the plan, we were able to catch up and successfully complete the project.
Question:
How do you ensure that you stay organized and manage multiple projects simultaneously?
Answer:
To manage multiple projects, I rely on project management tools to track tasks, deadlines, and progress. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, ensuring that high-priority projects receive attention first. I allocate specific time blocks for each project and hold regular status meetings with my team to stay updated on progress. By maintaining a detailed project schedule and staying proactive, I ensure that all projects move forward smoothly and on time.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to take over a project from a colleague. How did you get up to speed quickly?
Answer:
When I took over a project from a colleague, I began by reviewing all existing project documentation, including timelines, deliverables, and communication with stakeholders. I scheduled meetings with the team to understand the current status and any challenges they were facing. I also reached out to stakeholders to ensure alignment on expectations and timelines. By immersing myself in the project details and maintaining open communication, I was able to get up to speed quickly and lead the project to a successful completion.
Question:
How do you approach a situation where a project is delivered on time but doesn’t meet the client’s expectations?
Answer:
If a project is delivered on time but fails to meet client expectations, I first engage with the client to understand their concerns and the gaps between expectations and the deliverables. I then assess whether the issue stemmed from miscommunication, unclear requirements, or execution errors. Based on this assessment, I work with the team to make necessary adjustments or propose solutions that address the client’s concerns. Moving forward, I ensure tighter alignment with the client throughout the project to prevent similar issues.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project with very tight resources. How did you make it work?
Answer:
In a project with tight resources, I focused on prioritizing the most critical tasks and eliminating non-essential activities. I optimized the use of available resources by cross-training team members and ensuring efficient collaboration. I also maintained transparent communication with stakeholders to manage their expectations and secured additional resources when possible. By focusing on what was most important and making the best use of the team’s strengths, we were able to deliver the project successfully despite the constraints.
Question:
How do you approach measuring project success, beyond simply completing it on time and within budget?
Answer:
Beyond on-time and within-budget completion, I measure project success by evaluating the quality of deliverables, client or stakeholder satisfaction, and the project’s alignment with strategic objectives. I also assess whether the project met the key performance indicators (KPIs) that were defined at the outset. Additionally, I hold post-project reviews with the team and stakeholders to gather feedback and identify lessons learned, which helps refine future processes and improve overall success.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to work with a team that had low morale. How did you motivate them and improve performance?
Answer:
I once worked with a team that was feeling demotivated due to a series of challenging projects. To address this, I initiated open conversations to understand their concerns and challenges. I then focused on setting clear, achievable goals and celebrating small wins along the way to rebuild their confidence. I also provided opportunities for team members to contribute their ideas and take ownership of tasks. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, I was able to boost morale and improve team performance over time.
Question: Describe a time you had to deal with a conflict between two team members.
Answer: "Two colleagues had a disagreement about the direction of a project. I facilitated a meeting where both could express their concerns respectfully. I helped them find common ground, identify shared goals, and ultimately reach a compromise that benefited the project and preserved their working relationship."
Question: How do you handle making decisions with limited information?
Answer: "I gather as much relevant information as possible within the given timeframe, analyze the potential risks and benefits of each option, and consult with colleagues or experts when necessary. I'm comfortable making informed decisions even with incomplete information, and I'm prepared to adapt my approach as new information becomes available."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to take on a leadership role, even if you weren't officially in charge.
Answer: "During a team project, our designated leader was unexpectedly unavailable. I stepped up to coordinate tasks, facilitate communication, and motivate the team to stay on track. My initiative and leadership skills helped us maintain momentum and successfully complete the project."
Question: How do you approach setting goals for yourself and your team?
Answer: "I set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) that align with the company's objectives. I involve the team in the goal-setting process to ensure buy-in and ownership. I also break down large goals into smaller milestones and track progress regularly to maintain motivation and accountability."
Question: Give an example of a time you had to overcome a significant obstacle or challenge in your work.
Answer: "We encountered a major setback in a project due to unforeseen circumstances. I remained positive, analyzed the situation, and developed a revised plan to address the challenges. I motivated the team to persevere, and we successfully overcame the obstacle and delivered the project with minimal delays."
Question: How do you handle working on multiple projects simultaneously?
Answer: "I prioritize tasks effectively, utilize project management tools to stay organized, and communicate clearly with stakeholders about deadlines and progress. I'm adept at managing my time and resources to ensure all projects receive the necessary attention and are completed successfully."
Question: What are your preferred methods for staying organized and managing your workload?
Answer: "I use a combination of tools and techniques, including to-do lists, calendars, project management software, and time blocking. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, and I regularly review my progress to ensure I'm on track."
Question: How do you approach building relationships with clients or customers?
Answer: "I prioritize building trust and rapport by actively listening to their needs, communicating clearly and honestly, and delivering on my commitments. I strive to understand their perspectives, provide excellent service, and maintain long-term relationships."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to deal with a stressful or challenging situation at work.
Answer: "During a product launch, we encountered a last-minute technical issue that threatened to delay the release. I remained calm under pressure, collaborated with the technical team to identify a solution, and communicated effectively with stakeholders to manage expectations. We successfully resolved the issue and launched the product with minimal disruption."
Question: What are your salary expectations for this role, and what factors are most important to you in considering a job offer?
Answer: "My salary expectations are in the range of [mention your desired range], based on my skills, experience, and research on comparable positions. However, I'm also prioritizing factors such as opportunities for growth and development, a positive and inclusive work environment, and the company's commitment to [mention values or initiatives that are important to you, e.g., social responsibility, innovation, work-life balance]."
Question:
How do you handle a situation where your team is not meeting performance expectations?
Answer:
When my team is not meeting performance expectations, I start by analyzing the root cause. I hold one-on-one meetings to understand any challenges they’re facing, whether it’s unclear objectives, lack of resources, or personal issues. I then work collaboratively with the team to set clear, measurable performance goals and provide additional support or training if necessary. I also regularly monitor progress and offer constructive feedback to ensure improvements. By fostering a supportive environment and addressing issues head-on, I help the team get back on track and meet expectations.
Question:
Can you describe a time when you had to learn a new skill quickly to meet project requirements?
Answer:
During a project, I was asked to implement a new software tool that I had never used before. To meet the requirements, I quickly enrolled in online tutorials and spent extra hours outside of work learning the tool. I also reached out to colleagues who had experience with it for additional tips and guidance. Within a few days, I was proficient enough to successfully integrate the tool into the project, and we were able to meet the deadline without any disruptions. This experience reinforced my ability to learn new skills under pressure.
Question:
How do you ensure effective communication when managing a remote or distributed team?
Answer:
To ensure effective communication in a remote team, I establish clear guidelines on communication channels and frequency. We use collaboration tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and project management software to keep everyone aligned. I schedule regular video meetings for updates and discussions, making sure everyone has a chance to share their progress and concerns. I also encourage transparency and over-communication to avoid misunderstandings. By maintaining consistent communication and fostering a collaborative environment, I ensure that the team remains connected and productive.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a budget cut while still delivering a project successfully.
Answer:
In one project, we faced a significant budget cut midway through. I immediately reassessed the project plan and identified areas where we could reduce costs without compromising the final deliverables. This included cutting non-essential features, negotiating with vendors for better rates, and reallocating internal resources to avoid additional expenses. I communicated the changes with the stakeholders and adjusted timelines accordingly. By prioritizing the most critical elements and being resourceful, we were able to deliver the project successfully, despite the reduced budget.
Question:
How do you approach giving feedback to a team member who is not receptive to criticism?
Answer:
When giving feedback to someone who isn’t receptive to criticism, I focus on delivering it in a constructive and empathetic way. I start by acknowledging their strengths and contributions before addressing the areas for improvement. I ensure the feedback is specific, actionable, and focused on behavior, not personality. I also ask for their perspective, which helps create an open dialogue. By fostering a supportive environment and offering solutions rather than just criticism, I aim to make the feedback more acceptable and productive.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to balance short-term goals with long-term objectives. How did you manage it?
Answer:
In a previous role, I had to balance short-term client demands with the long-term development of a product. I approached this by clearly defining and communicating the immediate goals while keeping the broader vision in mind. I allocated resources in a way that allowed the team to address urgent needs without neglecting long-term initiatives. Regular check-ins with stakeholders helped ensure we were meeting short-term expectations while keeping progress toward long-term objectives. This approach allowed us to manage both without sacrificing quality or strategic direction.
Question:
How do you ensure that lessons learned from a project are implemented in future projects?
Answer:
After each project, I conduct a thorough retrospective or post-mortem meeting with the team to analyze what went well and what could be improved. We document the lessons learned and discuss actionable steps to apply those insights in future projects. I then ensure that these lessons are incorporated into our workflows, either by updating project templates, introducing new tools, or modifying processes. By institutionalizing these improvements, we can avoid repeating mistakes and continuously improve our performance in future projects.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage conflicting stakeholder expectations. How did you handle it?
Answer:
In one project, I faced conflicting expectations from two key stakeholders—one prioritized speed, while the other focused on quality. To manage this, I facilitated a meeting where both stakeholders could openly discuss their priorities. I highlighted the trade-offs between speed and quality and proposed a balanced solution where we could meet an adjusted timeline while maintaining a high level of quality. By fostering open communication and offering a compromise, I aligned the stakeholders and kept the project moving forward.
Question:
How do you ensure that you maintain attention to detail while working in a high-pressure environment?
Answer:
In a high-pressure environment, I maintain attention to detail by breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. I prioritize tasks based on their importance and impact and create checklists to ensure nothing is overlooked. I also schedule focused work time to tackle the most critical tasks without distractions. Additionally, I build in time for review and double-checking to catch any potential errors. This structured approach allows me to stay organized and thorough, even when working under pressure.
Question:
Can you describe a time when you led a cross-functional team? How did you ensure collaboration and success?
Answer:
I once led a cross-functional team on a product launch, where we had team members from marketing, engineering, and sales. To ensure collaboration, I set up regular meetings where each team could share updates and address any challenges. I made sure that the project goals were clear and aligned across departments, and I encouraged open communication to avoid any silos. By facilitating open dialogue and creating shared objectives, I ensured that all teams worked cohesively, and the product launch was successful.