Director of Procurement Services

The Director of Procurement Services provides leadership and oversight for the University’s procurement and purchasing operations. This position is responsible for ensuring that goods and services are acquired in a cost-effective, timely manner and in compliance with University policies and local, state, and federal regulations while supporting the University’s academic mission and operational goals.

The Director partners closely with academic and administrative areas to improve procurement processes, manage supplier relationships, and ensure strong financial stewardship and regulatory compliance.

Candidates should demonstrate responsiveness toward and understanding of diverse student backgrounds. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to the university’s mission to develop global citizens. Having the ability and willingness to work collegially is essential, as is an understanding of an interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum.

Essential duties include but are not limited to:

• Lead and manage the University’s purchasing and procurement operations, including strategic sourcing, competitive bids, Request for Proposals (RFPs)/Request for Quotations (RFQs), and contract negotiations. Works with end-users to develop specifications for RFQs/RFPs.
• Draft and execute complex purchase orders and contracts. Oversee contract review and execution in collaboration with Legal Counsel and campus stakeholders.
• Develop, implement, and continuously review and improve procurement policies, procedures, and best practices. Drive continuous innovation by researching, piloting emerging procurement technologies, such as AI-driven sourcing tools, predictive spend analysis, and contract lifecycle oversight.
• Ensure compliance with institutional policies and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Maintain strong internal controls and documentation to support audits and financial reviews.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities, strategic sourcing initiatives, and contract consolidation opportunities. Negotiates strongly with suppliers for lower prices. Develops new supply sources. Manage supplier relationships, evaluate performance, and resolve issues as needed.
• Oversee the University’s purchasing systems (e.g., Workday), including workflows, approvals, and user support. Oversee implementation and improvement of procurement technologies, ensuring seamless integration with current Finance, HR, grants management systems across University.
• Provide guidance and support to campus areas to ensure an efficient and user-friendly procurement process.
• Promote small business and sustainability participation through appropriate sourcing efforts as it aligns with the University mission.
• Hire, supervise, train, and evaluate purchasing staff; foster a collaborative and service-oriented team culture.
• Prepare reports and analyses on purchasing activity, trends, and savings for leadership. Perform complex spend analysis. Performs complex cost analysis and commodity planning across University.
• Supports transactional operations as necessary by reviewing, managing, and/or approving requests, transactions, and related activities (requisitions, purchase orders, supplier agreements).
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration.