SAP transaction list: A useful reference
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Senior IT Sourcing Manager & Strategy Consultant
BARON.KIWI – Strategic IT AdvisoryWelcome to BARON.KIWI
I’m Michael Baron
I help organizations optimize their IT sourcing strategies, achieve better contract terms, and streamline procurement processes. The result: 15–25% average cost savings and legally sound contracts. My expertise covers strategic negotiations, license management, and supplier selection.
Additional Info
| michael@baron.kiwi | |
| Phone DE | +49 173 91 74447 |
| Phone NZ | +64 21271 4447 |
| Born | 1981 |
| Nationality | German / Polish |
| Languages | German, English, Polish, Russian |
| Address | 1 Waimaki Way, Gulf Harbour, Whangaparaoa 0930 |
//Latest Articles
Insights, analysis, and practical guidance for IT sourcing, compliance, and strategy.
Explore current blog posts on contract management, license optimization, DORA, and negotiation strategies – concise and actionable.
How technology and language influence us
Technology and language shape our perception and decisions. How can we ensure …
German Angst vs. Innovation: Wie Datenschutz uns von der Zukunft abhält
Datenschutz ist wichtig, aber behindern wir uns in Deutschland selbst durch …
Erfolgreiche Gründung eines Joint Ventures: Schlüsselaspekte und Strategien
Establishing a joint venture requires strategic planning and clear structures. …
Reporting Obligations & Supervisory Rights: DORA and the State
This article systematically analyzes the reporting channels, timelines, and …
DORA vs. ITIL: EU-Verordnung trifft IT-Best Practice
DORA ist EU-Recht – ITIL ist gelebte Praxis. Gemeinsam schaffen sie Resilienz im …
DORA simply explained: Glossary & Abbreviations from the EU Regulation
The EU regulation DORA requires financial companies to demonstrate digital …
DORA RISKS
DORA aims to enhance resilience in the financial sector – but for many small and …
Retrofitting Legacy Contracts for DORA: Approach, Tools & Review Procedures
A best-practice guide for procurement, IT, and compliance teams: how to assess, …
DORA-Compliant Contracts: Clauses That Must Not Be Missing
From notification obligations and audit rights to exit strategies: this guide …
DORA im Einkauf: Stakeholder und Prozess-Checkliste bei IT-Beschaffungen
Von IT über Compliance bis zur Geschäftsführung: Der Beitrag liefert eine …
DORA and the SME Sector: Between Resilience and Market Exclusion
A critical examination of whether DORA overburdens small and medium-sized IT …
Code of Honor in the Workplace: More Than Words – A Practical Guide
An effective code of honor builds trust, provides clear guidance, and forms a …
//Services
What I can do for your IT – independent, pragmatic, and on equal footing.
Strategic IT procurement, contract optimization, and license management – tailored to your business needs. I help reduce risks and achieve better deals.
Vendor Selection & Tender Management
Choosing the right IT vendor is critical to your project's success. My structured selection process ensures you identify the most suitable partners, manage tenders efficiently, and negotiate from a position of strength.
Strategic Negotiation Management
Maximize your outcomes in IT contract negotiations. I provide expert support to develop tailored strategies, benchmark market standards, and help you negotiate better terms with vendors.
Software Asset Management (SAM)
Optimize your software usage, reduce compliance risks, and cut costs through professional Software Asset Management. Ideal for organizations managing complex software environments.
License Management & Compliance
Licenses are a major cost driver – and a legal risk. My service helps you uncover optimization potential, avoid fines in audits, and reduce overspending through a structured approach to license management.
IT Procurement Strategy
Develop a holistic IT procurement strategy that reduces costs, mitigates risks, and maximizes the strategic value of your IT investments. From spend analysis to supplier portfolio optimization.
IT Cost Optimization
Professional IT cost optimization helps you reduce expenses sustainably while improving efficiency, transparency, and governance of your IT investments.
IT Contract Analysis & Health Check
Professional analysis of IT contracts to identify hidden risks, reduce costs, and increase compliance. Includes structured contract reviews, benchmarks, and prioritized improvement plans.
Cross-Cultural IT Consulting EU/NZ
Bridge cultural and business differences between Europe and New Zealand for successful international IT projects and partnerships. From communication strategies to market insights and conflict resolution.
Cloud Cost Optimization
Reduce your cloud spend and maximize the value of your cloud investments. Through structured cost assessments, rightsizing, and governance practices, I help you achieve transparency, efficiency, and long-term savings.
Recent Projects
Book hardcover
Three automated reports are created for Boston EMS to indicate the details about incidents in Boston.
Skills
IT Contract Analysis & Health Check
License Management & Compliance
Strategic Negotiation
Supplier Selection & Tendering
Business Intelligence & Spend Analytics
Content Management & Automation
Intercultural Communication EU/NZ
⭓Professional Experience
Senior IT Sourcing Manager
REWE Group, Cologne
May 2023 – Dec 2024Strategic sourcing for IT services and software contracts at group level. Contract negotiation, licensing model optimization, and collaboration with CIOs and business units.
Supply Chain Manager IT
Vantage Towers Group, Düsseldorf
Jun 2022 – Nov 2022Established IT and Enterprise Services supply chain management. Developed new contract structures and processes.
Strategic Buyer & License Manager
ERGO Group, Düsseldorf
Jan 2017 – May 2022Responsible for software procurement, license management, and contract compliance. Negotiated framework agreements with major vendors (Microsoft, Oracle, Adobe, etc.).
⭓Education
State-Certified Business Economist (Business Informatics)
Feb 2011 – Jan 2014Berufskolleg Neuss Weingartstraße. Focus: IT systems, controlling, project management.
IT Specialist for System Integration (Apprenticeship)
Aug 1999 – Jul 2002Pro-Data Service GmbH. Trained in IT infrastructure, networking, server management, and user support.
Advanced Technical College Entrance Qualification (Economics)
1998Graduated from Christian-Wierstraet-Realschule, Neuss
Contact
Get in Touch
Request a free consultation or a contract health check.