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 approach a situation where key stakeholders have conflicting priorities or goals for a project?
Answer:
When stakeholders have conflicting priorities, I first facilitate a discussion to clarify each stakeholder’s goals and expectations. I focus on understanding the broader business objectives and how each priority fits into the bigger picture. I help stakeholders recognize the trade-offs involved with each option and encourage collaboration to find a compromise that aligns with the project’s overall goals. By focusing on transparent communication and fostering a collaborative mindset, I help align stakeholders and move forward with a unified plan.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult client. How did you maintain a positive working relationship?
Answer:
In one project, the client was frequently changing requirements, which caused disruptions. I took the time to listen to their concerns and worked to understand the root cause of the changes. I scheduled regular check-ins to provide updates and clarify expectations, which helped manage their concerns proactively. By setting clear boundaries and maintaining open communication, I was able to address their needs without jeopardizing the project timeline. This approach strengthened our working relationship and ultimately led to a successful outcome.
Question:
How do you ensure your team remains productive and focused during long-term projects?
Answer:
For long-term projects, I set clear milestones and break the project down into smaller, manageable tasks. This helps the team focus on short-term goals and maintain a sense of progress. I also celebrate small wins along the way to keep morale high. Regular check-ins and open communication help address any concerns or bottlenecks early. By keeping the team engaged with achievable milestones and providing consistent support, I ensure productivity remains high throughout the duration of the project.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to quickly pivot a project due to unforeseen challenges. How did you manage it?
Answer:
In one project, we encountered a major technical issue that disrupted our original plan. I quickly gathered the team to assess the situation and identify alternative solutions. We re-prioritized tasks and adjusted the project timeline to accommodate the necessary changes. I communicated with stakeholders to manage expectations and ensured the team remained focused on the new objectives. By staying calm and adapting our approach, we were able to pivot successfully and deliver the project with minimal delays.
Question:
How do you manage stress and maintain performance during high-pressure situations?
Answer:
In high-pressure situations, I stay organized by prioritizing tasks and breaking them into smaller, actionable steps. This helps me focus on immediate priorities without feeling overwhelmed. I also maintain open communication with the team and stakeholders to ensure everyone is aligned. Taking short breaks and managing my time effectively helps me stay refreshed and maintain productivity. By staying focused and keeping a clear plan in mind, I manage stress and continue to perform well under pressure.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to overcome resistance to change within a team. How did you manage it?
Answer:
When implementing a new software tool in a previous project, I encountered resistance from team members who were comfortable with the old process. I addressed their concerns by organizing a series of training sessions to demonstrate how the new tool would improve their workflows. I also encouraged them to share feedback and suggestions during the transition. By involving the team in the process and offering support, I was able to overcome resistance and ensure a smooth adoption of the new tool.
Question:
How do you ensure that project deliverables meet both the client’s expectations and the company’s quality standards?
Answer:
To ensure deliverables meet both client expectations and quality standards, I begin by establishing clear requirements and deliverables at the outset of the project. I maintain close communication with the client throughout the project to ensure alignment and address any changes early. Internally, I set up regular quality checks and reviews to ensure that the team adheres to company standards. By maintaining these practices, I ensure that deliverables are on time, meet client needs, and are of the highest quality.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project across different geographic locations or time zones. How did you ensure collaboration?
Answer:
In a global project involving teams in different time zones, I established clear communication protocols and tools to ensure collaboration. We used project management software to keep everyone updated asynchronously and scheduled meetings at times that overlapped for all teams. I made sure to document decisions and share meeting notes to keep everyone informed, regardless of time zone. By fostering transparency and leveraging technology, I ensured smooth collaboration and alignment across all locations.
Question:
How do you handle a situation where a project is falling behind schedule?
Answer:
When a project falls behind schedule, I first assess the root cause of the delay by reviewing the progress and identifying any bottlenecks. I then prioritize critical tasks and redistribute resources to address the most urgent issues. I communicate with stakeholders to reset expectations and adjust the timeline if necessary. I also encourage the team to focus on efficiency while maintaining quality. By addressing the delay early and making necessary adjustments, I work to bring the project back on track.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to implement a new process that improved team efficiency. What steps did you take?
Answer:
In a previous role, I identified inefficiencies in our project handoff process between departments. I introduced a standardized template that included key deliverables, deadlines, and responsibilities to ensure smoother transitions. I trained the team on the new process and gathered feedback to refine it. The result was a significant reduction in miscommunication and delays, improving overall efficiency. By implementing a clear process and ensuring team buy-in, we were able to streamline workflows and improve productivity.
Question: Describe your ideal work environment.
Answer: I thrive in a collaborative and supportive environment where I can learn and grow. I value open communication, respect for diverse perspectives, and a shared commitment to excellence. I also appreciate a workplace that encourages innovation, provides opportunities for professional development, and recognizes employee contributions.
Question: What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Answer: (Focus on strengths relevant to the job and weaknesses that you are actively working to improve)
"One of my key strengths is my ability to [strength 1, e.g., analyze complex data and identify trends] which I demonstrated in my previous role by [give a specific example]. I'm also a strong [strength 2, e.g., communicator] and enjoy collaborating with others to achieve shared goals.
As for areas for improvement, I'm working on [weakness, e.g., becoming more comfortable with public speaking]. To address this, I recently [action taken, e.g., joined Toastmasters and volunteered to present at a team meeting]."
Question: Tell me about a time you failed. What did you learn from it?
Answer: (Choose a real failure, but not a catastrophic one. Focus on what you learned.)
"In a previous project, I underestimated the time required to complete a task, which led to a missed deadline. While it was a setback, it taught me the importance of careful planning, realistic time management, and proactive communication. Now, I break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, use project management tools to track progress, and communicate potential challenges early on."
Question: Why are you interested in this position?
Answer: (Tailor this to the specific role and company)
"I'm excited about this opportunity because [reason 1, e.g., it aligns with my skills and experience in X] and I'm eager to contribute to [company goal or mission]. I've been particularly impressed by [something specific about the company, e.g., your commitment to innovation/customer service/ sustainability]. I believe my skills in [mention relevant skills] would be a valuable asset to your team, and I'm confident I can make a significant contribution to [mention specific area/project]."
Question: Where do you see yourself in five years?
Answer: (Be ambitious but realistic. Align your answer with the company's potential career paths.)
"In five years, I see myself as a valuable member of this organization, having grown both professionally and personally. I'm eager to take on increasing responsibility and contribute to the company's success in a leadership role. I'm also committed to continuous learning and development, and I hope to expand my skills in [mention areas relevant to the company's future]. "
Question: What questions do you have for me?
Answer: (Always have a few insightful questions prepared. This shows your interest and engagement.)
- "Can you tell me more about the company's culture and values?"
- "What are the biggest challenges facing the team right now?"
- "What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the company?"
- "What are the next steps in the hiring process?"
Question: Tell me about a time you had to work under pressure.
Answer: "In my previous role, we were launching a new product and faced a last-minute technical issue. With the deadline looming, I collaborated closely with the development team to identify the root cause and implement a solution. I remained calm under pressure, prioritized tasks effectively, and communicated clearly with stakeholders throughout the process. We were able to resolve the issue and successfully launch the product on time."
Question: Describe a situation where you had to persuade someone to see your point of view.
Answer: "In a previous project, I proposed a new marketing strategy that I believed would be more effective. However, a key stakeholder was hesitant to deviate from the traditional approach. To persuade them, I presented data and research supporting my proposal, highlighting the potential benefits and addressing their concerns. I also acknowledged the value of the traditional approach while emphasizing the potential for improved results with the new strategy. Ultimately, my persuasive presentation and data-driven arguments convinced the stakeholder to embrace the new approach, which led to a successful campaign."
Question: How do you handle constructive criticism?
Answer: "I view constructive criticism as a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement. I actively listen to the feedback, ask clarifying questions to ensure I understand the perspective, and reflect on how I can apply the insights to enhance my performance. I appreciate when feedback is specific and actionable, and I strive to incorporate it into my work to achieve better outcomes."
Question: Describe a time you had to deal with ambiguity or uncertainty in a project.
Answer: "In a previous role, we were tasked with developing a new product for a market with limited data available. To navigate the uncertainty, we conducted thorough market research, engaged with potential customers to understand their needs, and developed a flexible plan that allowed us to adapt as we gathered more information. We also embraced an iterative approach, testing and refining our product based on feedback and evolving market insights."
Question: How do you prioritize your work when you have multiple deadlines and competing demands?
Answer: "I prioritize my work by first assessing the urgency and importance of each task. I consider deadlines, potential impact, and dependencies. I use tools like to-do lists and project management software to organize my tasks and track progress. I also communicate proactively with stakeholders to manage expectations and ensure alignment on priorities."
Question: Give an example of a time you demonstrated leadership skills, even if you weren't in a formal leadership role.
Answer: "In a previous team project, we were struggling to meet a tight deadline. I took the initiative to organize the team's efforts, delegate tasks based on individual strengths, and facilitate communication to ensure everyone was aligned. I also motivated the team by recognizing contributions and maintaining a positive attitude. While I wasn't the official team leader, my proactive approach helped us overcome the challenges and deliver the project successfully."
Question: How do you stay updated on industry trends and developments?
Answer: "I stay informed by regularly reading industry publications, attending conferences and webinars, and engaging with thought leaders on professional networking platforms. I also participate in online communities and forums to exchange ideas and learn from others in my field. I believe continuous learning is essential to stay ahead in today's rapidly evolving landscape."
Question: What motivates you to do your best work?
Answer: (Be genuine and specific. Connect your answer to the company's values or mission if possible.)
"I'm motivated by a desire to make a meaningful contribution and achieve results. I thrive on challenges and enjoy solving problems that have a positive impact. I'm also driven by a sense of purpose and the opportunity to learn and grow. In this role, I'm particularly excited by the prospect of [relate to the company's mission or values, e.g., 'contributing to innovative solutions that benefit customers' or 'being part of a company that prioritizes sustainability']."
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]."