IT Software Asset Management (SAM) Specialist

About the Role

Abnormal AI is seeking a highly organized and technically proficient IT Software Asset Management (SAM) Specialist to join the IT team. This role will take day-to-day ownership of our IT software portfolio contract lifecycle management. You will actively manage software usage, reclaim unused licenses, support procurement negotiations, ensure renewals are timely, and reduce software waste.

This role is critical to optimizing our IT software investments, maintaining compliance, advancing our technical asset maturity, and supporting future IT and corporate budget planning. You will also lead the operational setup and ongoing administration of a Software Asset Management platform (such as ServiceNow SAM Pro or equivalent).

Who you are

• You thrive in structured, fast-paced environments where proactive ownership is key.You are a technical thinker who enjoys problem-solving, analyzing usage data, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.You are an operational leader who ensures no renewal or compliance task slips through the cracks.You are a collaborator, partnering with IT, Finance, and Procurement but leading the SAM process with independence and precision.
• Examples:
• You notice unused software licenses and immediately start a reclamation project without waiting to be asked.
• You track every vendor contract renewal date months in advance and rally stakeholders early.
• You spot duplicative platforms and present a well-researched plan to consolidate, saving the company money.
• You deploy and optimize asset management tools to gain real-time insights into the IT environment.
• You leverage asset data and trends to inform IT budget cycles and forward-looking financial planning.
• Strong oral and written communication skills 

What you will do 

• License Optimization: Monitor software usage and reclaim licenses from inactive users.
• Contract Management: Track and maintain all IT software agreements, including renewal dates and compliance terms.
• Renewal Process: Collaborate with Procurement to begin renewal conversations at least 90 days in advance; provide support materials such as usage reports and contract summaries.
• Software Rationalization: Identify duplicative or underused systems and lead the initiative to reduce waste and overlapping spend.
• Platform Ownership: Implement, configure, and maintain a SAM tool (ServiceNow SAM Pro or equivalent).
• Governance: Develop policies, processes, and reporting practices for software asset management.
• Reporting: Deliver regular dashboards and reports on license utilization, renewals, compliance risks, optimization opportunities, and financial impact.
• Budget Planning Support: Translate SAM findings into actionable insights for IT budget forecasting, renewal planning, and cost optimization strategies.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with IT, Finance, GRC, Procurement, and Security teams to ensure an aligned, compliant, and cost-effective software environment.

Must Haves 

• Experience working in a remote-first company
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3+ years of experience managing IT software assets and licensing.
• Hands-on experience with SAM platforms such as ServiceNow SAM Pro, Flexera, Snow Software, or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of software licensing models (e.g., SaaS, subscription, perpetual).
• Familiarity with contract terms, compliance requirements, and vendor audit preparedness.
• Strong data analysis, reporting, and dashboard development skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and cross-functional communication skills.
• Proactive, independent work style with an attention to operational excellence.

Nice to Have 

• Certification in Software Asset Management (e.g., CSAM) or ITIL Foundation certification.
• Experience assisting in vendor negotiations, including providing usage and optimization data to Procurement.
• Experience with software rationalization, identifying duplicate systems, and consolidation initiatives.
• Knowledge of major vendor licensing such as Google, Zoom, Slack, Microsoft

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