IT Contract & Renewal Specialist

ABOUT POET

At POET, it is our mission to be good stewards of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible. For over thirty-five years, our drive and passion to change the world has enabled us to become the largest producer and marketer of bioethanol and a leader in sustainable products in the world.

CULTURE IS KING AT POET

We're all on the same team. We always communicate. And we park our egos at the door. These aren't just slogans on our walls. It's the way we do things at POET. We provide an environment for team members to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It's the best way to optimize health, wellness, and productivity in a sustainable way. We work hard. We play hard. We have frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and we know how to celebrate wins!

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES

The IT Contract and Renewal Specialist partners across the organization to bring structure, visibility, and consistency to how technology contracts are managed. This role serves as a trusted advisor to stakeholders, guiding contract intake, supporting proactive renewal planning, and helping teams anticipate changes that may impact cost, risk, or vendor relationships. You'll collaborate with IT, Finance, Procurement, and Legal to ensure contracts are well-managed, forward-looking, and aligned with organizational standards. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working cross-functionally, improving processes, and turning contract data into actionable insights.

This is an on-site role located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Responsibilities include:

• Partner with stakeholders to support contract lifecycle activities, improving visibility, organization, and accessibility of IT contracts
• Maintain and enhance a centralized contract repository to ensure accurate, up-to-date records and easy retrieval
• Guide teams in using standard templates and required terms to promote consistency and reduce risk across agreements
• Support proactive renewal planning by monitoring timelines and helping stakeholders prepare well in advance of key dates
• Analyze contract and vendor trends to identify potential changes, such as pricing model shifts or scope adjustments, early and advise stakeholders accordingly
• Partner with Finance and Procurement to support forecasting and provide visibility into upcoming contract spend and renewal impacts
• Coordinate cross-functional partners to align on contract renewals, approvals, and decision-making
• Review contracts to help ensure inclusion of service levels, security requirements, and commercial protections
• Identify and implement process improvements to streamline contract intake, approvals, and audit readiness
• Since we're all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skill may be put to a lot of other uses!

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 3+ Years of experience required/preferred for the role.
• Experience in contract management, procurement, legal operations, or a related field
• Experience with contract lifecycle management (CLM) tools or similar systems
• Exposure to IT contracts, vendor management, or technology procurement
• Experience supporting budgeting, forecasting, or spend analysis related to contracts
• Experience supporting contract compliance, audit preparation, or risk mitigation efforts
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent organization and time management skills with a sense of urgency that drives results.

A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE

• A proactive and forward-thinking mindset, anticipating needs and identifying potential changes before they become issues
• A collaborative approach, with the ability to build trust and work effectively across teams
• The ability to connect details to the bigger picture, using contract data to inform decisions and planning
• A strong sense of ownership in their work, while operating as a partner and advisor to others
• A focus on consistency, quality, and continuous improvement
• Sound judgment and the confidence to raise risks or concerns early

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position operates in an office environment, working at a personal computer where you may sit or stand. Most of our Sioux Falls office workspace consists of an open-concept design intended to promote open communication and collaboration.

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

At POET, we encourage internal development and growth by allowing team members to carve their own path to success. Leaders support team members with the necessary resources to develop their skills, achieve goals, and create the most value. We believe in developing our team members to their highest potential and recognizing contributions that add value to the organization. Each new team member's position and compensation are carefully determined by considering their unique qualifications and skillset.

BENEFITS
For eligible team members

• Comprehensive benefits package: Individual and family plans for health, dental, & vision insurance, including a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution
• Quarterly Profit-Sharing Bonuses and Bi-Annual Incentive Bonuses
• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions
• 401K with company match
• Paid time off and paid holidays - 40 hours available on day ONE!
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Attractive Relocation Assistance and Bonus Programs for qualifying positions and/or locations

OTHER PERKS
For eligible team members

• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person - mentally, physically, and spiritually
• Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements
• Safety and cold weather gear reimbursements
• Discounted home and auto insurance

POET is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, abilities, merit, and other legitimate business factors, without regard to any legally protected characteristic. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, working conditions, promotion, and termination.