Microsoft Program Manager

About the Opportunity

First Technology is seeking a highly skilled and strategic Microsoft Partner Program Manager to drive the management, optimisation, governance, and growth of Microsoft partner programs across the business. This role is responsible for maximising the value of Microsoft's partnership ecosystem, ensuring compliance, driving rebate and incentive opportunities, supporting business stakeholders, and enabling divisions to leverage Microsoft programs effectively.

The successful candidate will serve as the subject matter expert on Microsoft Partner Centre, incentive programs, rebates, and partner benefits while building strong relationships across Microsoft and internal business units.

Key Responsibilities

Microsoft Partner Program Management

• Manage and administer Microsoft Partner Programs, ensuring compliance with all program requirements and guidelines.
• Continuously assess, optimise, and maximise the value derived from Microsoft partner benefits, incentives, and funding programs.
• Maintain and administer Microsoft Partner Centre, ensuring all information remains accurate, complete, and up to date.
• Ensure First Technology maintains membership and access to all applicable Microsoft partner programs.
• Manage the delivery and reporting of Strategic Partnership Funding (SPF) and similar Microsoft program requirements, including proof of execution.
• Track program performance and identify opportunities for increased partner benefits and business value.

Incentive and Rebate Management

Act as the internal expert on Microsoft incentive structures and incentive guides.

Monitor, analyse, and report on incentive earnings and rebate opportunities.

Ensure accurate and timely submission of rebate claims and supporting documentation.

Develop processes to maximise incentive attainment and compliance.

Stakeholder and Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Microsoft representatives and key stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary liaison between First Technology and Microsoft for partner program-related matters.
• Maintain a comprehensive stakeholder map and organisational structure of relevant Microsoft contacts.
• Advocate for business requirements within the Microsoft ecosystem.

Cross-Functional Support

• Provide guidance and support to all departments engaging with Microsoft programs.
• Assist internal teams with navigating Microsoft Partner Centre, funding opportunities, incentives, and program requirements.
• Resolve program-related issues through collaboration with Microsoft and internal stakeholders.

Training and Enablement

• Develop and facilitate training programs on Microsoft partner programs, incentives, and best practices.
• Create and maintain enablement materials, guides, and supporting documentation.
• Equip business units with the knowledge and tools required to effectively leverage Microsoft opportunities.

Strategic Planning

• Align Microsoft partner program activities with organisational objectives and growth strategies.
• Develop and maintain a roadmap for the implementation and evolution of Microsoft programs across the business.
• Identify opportunities to improve business performance through enhanced Microsoft engagement.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Analyse Microsoft data sources to generate meaningful business insights.
• Develop reports, dashboards, and recommendations that support strategic decision-making.
• Present program performance, rebate status, compliance metrics, and strategic recommendations to leadership.
• Measure and demonstrate the value and return on investment of Microsoft partner initiatives.

Governance and Compliance

• Ensure all Microsoft program activities comply with Microsoft policies, standards, and requirements.
• Implement and maintain governance frameworks around partner program participation.
• Maintain accurate records, procedures, and documentation for audit and compliance purposes.

Innovation and Continuous Improvement

• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Stay informed on changes within Microsoft technologies, programs, incentives, and partner opportunities.
• Drive innovation by leveraging new Microsoft initiatives that benefit the organisation.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Relevant Degree, Diploma, or equivalent qualification in Business, Information (preferred)
• Technology, Project Management, or a related field.
• Relevant Microsoft certifications preferred

Experience

• Minimum 3 years' experience managing Microsoft Partner Programs, incentives, rebates, or alliance management functions.
• Proven experience working with Microsoft Partner Centre. Experience managing Microsoft funding programs, incentives, rebates, and compliance requirements.
• Experience engaging with senior stakeholders and external technology partners.

Technical Knowledge

• Expert understanding of Microsoft Partner Centre.
• Expert knowledge of Microsoft incentive programs and incentive guides.
• Strong understanding of Microsoft products, solutions, cloud technologies, and partner ecosystems.
• Advanced reporting, analytics, and data interpretation skills.