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Morgan Stanley | Director - Indirect Sourcing Manager (Corporate Services) | Mumbai, India | 6+ Years | Best in Industry

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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

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 prioritize tasks when you have multiple high-priority deadlines to meet?

Answer:
When faced with multiple high-priority deadlines, I start by assessing each task based on its urgency, impact on the business, and dependencies. I often use a method like the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks by urgency and importance. After understanding the priorities, I break down larger tasks into smaller milestones to ensure progress. I also maintain constant communication with stakeholders to manage expectations, and if necessary, I’m proactive in requesting additional resources or adjusting deadlines. My goal is to balance quality with timely delivery while ensuring no critical details are overlooked.

Question:
Can you give an example of a time when you had to adapt quickly to changes in a project? How did you handle it?

Answer:
In one of my previous projects, we faced a significant change in scope mid-way due to shifting client requirements. The initial project plan was focused on a specific outcome, but we had to pivot due to market changes that the client wanted to address. I gathered the team for an immediate re-assessment, where we re-evaluated our priorities and timelines. We maintained open communication with the client to ensure alignment. Internally, I created a revised roadmap, redistributed resources, and set clear milestones. This adaptive approach allowed us to not only meet the new objectives but also deliver a more refined product, on time.

Question:
How do you handle conflicts within your team, and what steps do you take to ensure they are resolved effectively?

Answer:
When handling team conflicts, I first approach the situation by actively listening to both sides without making assumptions. It’s essential to create an environment where all parties feel comfortable expressing their concerns. After identifying the root cause of the conflict, I facilitate a discussion to find common ground and focus on the project’s goals rather than individual differences. I encourage collaborative problem-solving and ensure that everyone understands their roles and how their contributions affect the broader objective. If necessary, I follow up with the individuals to ensure there is a lasting resolution and that team dynamics remain positive.

Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to work with limited resources. How did you manage to achieve your objectives?

Answer:
In a previous role, I led a project where budget cuts significantly reduced the available resources. Instead of focusing on what we didn’t have, I shifted focus to maximizing efficiency with the resources at hand. I re-evaluated the project plan to identify areas where we could streamline processes and reduce non-essential tasks. I also leveraged cross-functional collaboration to share knowledge and skills across teams. By prioritizing the most critical tasks and fostering a culture of resourcefulness, we were able to meet the project objectives without compromising on quality.

Question:
How do you ensure that you are continuously improving in your professional role?

Answer:
Continuous improvement is a key part of my professional development. I regularly set short-term and long-term goals, ensuring they are aligned with both organizational needs and my personal growth. I actively seek feedback from peers, managers, and stakeholders to identify areas where I can improve. Additionally, I stay updated on industry trends and advancements by attending workshops, webinars, and training programs. I also make it a point to learn from my experiences, analyzing what went well and what could have been better in past projects, and applying those insights moving forward.

Question:
Describe a time when you had to deliver bad news to a client or stakeholder. How did you approach the situation?

Answer:
In one project, we encountered an unexpected technical issue that caused a delay in the delivery timeline. I knew that transparent communication was crucial, so I immediately scheduled a meeting with the client to explain the situation. I provided a clear, honest explanation of the issue, the steps we were taking to resolve it, and the revised timeline. Additionally, I offered potential solutions to mitigate the impact, such as prioritizing certain deliverables. By focusing on the proactive measures we were taking, I was able to maintain the client’s trust and manage expectations effectively.

Question:
How do you ensure effective communication within a distributed or remote team?

Answer:
Effective communication in a distributed or remote team starts with setting clear expectations for communication channels and frequency. I prefer using a combination of asynchronous tools like email and collaboration platforms (e.g., Slack, Teams) along with regular check-ins via video conferencing. I also encourage over-communication, especially when working on time-sensitive or complex tasks, to prevent misunderstandings. It’s essential to maintain transparency and ensure everyone has access to the same information. I also make time for one-on-one meetings with team members to ensure they feel supported and aligned with the team’s objectives. This structured communication ensures that everyone stays connected and informed, regardless of location.

Question:
How do you approach setting and achieving long-term goals in your work?

Answer:
When setting long-term goals, I first break them down into smaller, achievable milestones. I create a roadmap with clear timelines and measurable outcomes to track progress. I also regularly review and adjust the plan as needed to stay aligned with changing circumstances or priorities. By focusing on incremental progress and staying flexible, I ensure that I remain on track while maintaining a clear view of the ultimate objective. Regular self-reflection and feedback help me stay motivated and course-correct when necessary.

Question:
Describe a time when you had to persuade others to adopt a new process or idea. How did you gain their buy-in?

Answer:
In a previous project, I introduced a new workflow tool to streamline team collaboration. Some team members were hesitant, so I presented a clear case, demonstrating the tool’s benefits in terms of time-saving and increased efficiency. I provided real-world examples, offered training sessions to ease the transition, and encouraged feedback to make adjustments. By showing the value and ensuring everyone felt supported, I was able to gain their buy-in, and the new process was successfully adopted, improving overall productivity.

Question:
How do you stay updated on industry trends and integrate new knowledge into your work?

Answer:
I stay updated on industry trends by regularly reading relevant blogs, research papers, and attending webinars or conferences. I also participate in professional groups and online forums where industry experts share their insights. When I come across new knowledge or trends that could benefit my work, I assess how they align with my current projects and look for ways to integrate them. Whether it’s adopting new tools, optimizing processes, or improving my skills, I ensure that my work evolves with the latest industry advancements.

Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage uncertainty in a project. How did you ensure progress?

Answer:
In one project, we faced uncertainty due to external factors affecting the delivery schedule. To manage the situation, I developed contingency plans by identifying potential risks and outlining alternative solutions. I kept communication lines open with the team and stakeholders, updating them on any developments and progress. By breaking the project down into smaller tasks and focusing on what we could control, we continued making progress. Regular reviews helped us adjust quickly as new information became available, ensuring we stayed as close to the original timeline as possible.

Question:
How do you handle situations where you need to give constructive feedback to a colleague?

Answer:
When giving constructive feedback, I ensure that it is specific, actionable, and focused on behaviors or outcomes, rather than personal attributes. I choose the right time and setting for the conversation to avoid any distractions. I begin by acknowledging the colleague’s strengths and contributions, then explain the area where improvement is needed, providing examples. I offer suggestions for how they can address the issue and express my confidence in their ability to improve. I also make myself available for follow-up support to ensure positive change.

Question:
Can you describe a time when you had to manage a project across different time zones? How did you ensure effective collaboration?

Answer:
In a project involving teams across multiple time zones, I set up a communication plan that accommodated everyone’s working hours. I established overlapping time windows for meetings and made sure to document discussions and decisions for those who couldn’t attend. We used collaborative tools to share updates and progress asynchronously, ensuring that everyone remained informed and engaged. By being mindful of different time zones and leveraging technology, I ensured that the project moved forward smoothly and maintained effective collaboration despite the geographical differences.

Question:
How do you handle high-pressure situations where quick decision-making is required?

Answer:
In high-pressure situations, I remain calm and focus on gathering the most critical information needed to make an informed decision quickly. I prioritize the decision based on urgency, impact, and available resources, and consult with key stakeholders when possible. If there’s not enough time for a thorough review, I rely on past experience and best practices to guide my choices. Once the decision is made, I communicate it clearly to the team and ensure swift execution. I also remain adaptable, ready to course-correct if new information arises.


Question:
How do you handle situations where your team is working under tight deadlines and the quality of work may be at risk?

Answer:
When facing tight deadlines, I prioritize tasks that have the highest impact on the project’s success while ensuring quality standards are maintained. I communicate with the team to assess if additional support or resources are needed to meet the deadline without sacrificing quality. If necessary, I delegate non-critical tasks or adjust the timeline by communicating with stakeholders. Regular quality checks during the process ensure that even under pressure, we meet the project’s goals without compromising on the end product.

Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to mediate a dispute between team members. What approach did you take?

Answer:
During a project, two team members had a disagreement about the direction of a task. I brought both individuals into a neutral setting to discuss their perspectives. I listened carefully to each side and encouraged them to find common ground, focusing on the project’s objectives rather than personal preferences. By helping them communicate openly and guiding the conversation toward a solution, we were able to resolve the conflict and move forward with a clearer, unified approach.

Question:
How do you ensure that your projects are aligned with the company’s strategic objectives?

Answer:
To align my projects with the company’s strategic objectives, I begin by thoroughly understanding the organization’s goals and how the project contributes to them. I regularly communicate with senior leadership to ensure we’re on track and adjust the project plan as necessary to stay aligned. I also set clear, measurable objectives that tie directly to company priorities, which I review at key milestones to ensure ongoing alignment.

Question:
Describe a time when you had to handle a project that was assigned to you at the last minute. How did you manage to deliver it on time?

Answer:
I was once assigned a project last minute with a tight deadline. To manage it, I quickly gathered all the necessary information and prioritized the most critical tasks. I delegated responsibilities to team members based on their strengths and focused on delivering the essential components first. I communicated with stakeholders to set realistic expectations and provided regular updates on our progress. By staying organized and focusing on what was feasible, we delivered the project on time and met the key objectives.

Question:
How do you ensure that your team remains engaged and motivated during long-term projects with little immediate feedback?

Answer:
I keep my team engaged in long-term projects by setting short-term milestones and celebrating small wins along the way. This provides a sense of accomplishment and keeps the team motivated. I also maintain regular communication to ensure that everyone is clear on their contributions to the larger goal. Encouraging team members to share their challenges and successes during regular check-ins helps to foster collaboration and keeps morale high, even when immediate feedback is limited.

Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project with significant regulatory or compliance requirements. How did you ensure compliance?

Answer:
In a previous project, we had to ensure compliance with strict industry regulations. I started by thoroughly reviewing the regulatory requirements and working closely with the compliance team to integrate those standards into our project plan. I built in checkpoints throughout the project to ensure we were staying compliant, and I held regular reviews with stakeholders to address any potential risks. By embedding compliance into the workflow from the start, we ensured that all deliverables met regulatory standards without causing delays.

Question:
How do you manage a situation where a key team member is suddenly unavailable during a critical phase of the project?

Answer:
If a key team member becomes unavailable during a critical phase, I quickly assess their responsibilities and determine the most urgent tasks. I redistribute the workload among the team, ensuring that the most skilled members take on the critical tasks. If necessary, I adjust the project timeline slightly to accommodate the change and communicate the situation to stakeholders. I also look for external resources or temporary support if the workload exceeds the team’s capacity. By acting swiftly and ensuring clear communication, we can minimize disruption to the project.

Question:
Describe a time when you were responsible for managing a project’s budget. How did you ensure that the project stayed within budget?

Answer:
I managed a project with a tight budget, and to stay within limits, I carefully tracked all expenses from the start. I reviewed the budget regularly and identified areas where we could reduce costs without impacting the project’s quality. I negotiated with vendors for discounts and found ways to optimize resource allocation. By maintaining close control of the budget and making adjustments where needed, we were able to complete the project within the allocated financial resources.

Question:
How do you handle a situation where the project goals are unclear or frequently changing?

Answer:
When project goals are unclear or frequently changing, I prioritize communication with stakeholders to clarify objectives and gather as much information as possible. I document changes and ensure that the team understands the new direction. I also implement a flexible project plan that can adapt to evolving goals without causing delays. By maintaining ongoing dialogue and being adaptable, I ensure that the team stays focused and aligned, even when the objectives shift.

Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project with tight interdependencies between teams. How did you ensure coordination?

Answer:
In a project with tight interdependencies between teams, I set up a clear communication plan from the outset. We held regular cross-team meetings to update each other on progress and address any blockers that could impact other teams. I also created a shared project dashboard to track dependencies and ensure transparency. By keeping everyone aligned and addressing potential issues early, we were able to maintain smooth coordination and meet our shared deadlines.
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.