University Director of Procurement Services
University of Connecticut

Job Info

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JOB SUMMARY

The University Director participates in efforts leading to cost optimization, improved quality of goods and services, enhanced innovation through the development of strategic sourcing initiatives, assurance of sourcing compliance, adherence to state and federal law, and university policies and procedures, effective vendor negotiation, and staff development and training.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, leading a team of procurement professionals; managing procurement operations and staff at all UConn campuses; serving as an integral member of the unit's leadership team, working closely with the AVP/CPO in establishing and implementing the unit's strategic mission and goals;  developing, recommending, implementing, and maintaining university-wide policies, procedures, and process improvements; identifying opportunities for improvement; assisting in the preparation and projections of the annual budget; leading large-scale projects in support of the University's 'One-UConn' initiative; serving in a consultative role with peers throughout the University; exercising proper decision-making through designated signature authority to contractually bind the University in legal agreements and issuing purchase orders; assessing existing and prospective vendors and evaluating the products and services offered; serving as a primary resource for customers, vendors, and staff as necessary; ensuring compliance with all applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations, e.g., Connecticut General Statutes, Uniform Guidance, and with other Federal and State agencies having jurisdiction over the acquisition of products and services; participating actively in a variety of procurement organizations, such as the Connecticut Colleges Purchasing Group (CCPG), and the National Association of Education of Procurement (NAEP); responsible for the development, management and tracking of unit-wide metrics and key performance indicators as defined with oversight of procurement analysts; preparing complex reports, presentations and other documents in response to University constituents, vendors, and state and federal regulatory agencies; developing strong collaborative relationships with key internal stakeholders to strategically manage capital project contracts and vendor relationships; serving as subject matter expert in consulting with university business units on negotiation strategies, contract review, vendor management, procurement laws, regulations, policies, and best practices; traveling to all University campuses and/or visiting suppliers in support of University initiatives as needed; and performing other related duties as required.

For a complete job description and additional details, please visit:  http://ubs.uconn.edu.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced degree in area such as Business (MBA), Public Administration (MPA) or similar field, or advanced law degree (Master of Laws (LL.M.), Juris Doctor (J.D.))

Seven (7) years of experience in procurement management, sourcing administration and negotiation with at least five (5) years at the level of supervisor.

Considerable knowledge of principles of procurement, compliance, procurement law, familiarity with State and procurement statutes, federal regulations, and other public procurement in a state or federal environment.

Knowledge and ability to apply management principles and techniques; strong bid development and negotiation skills; strong knowledge of procurement legal issues including applicable federal and state laws, statutes and regulations.  Ability to design, monitor and implement departmental and institutional policies and procedures.  Understanding of significance and commitment to supplier diversity programs.

Facilitate vendor management ensuring increased communication that improves business processes, affect demand for services or changes in market conditions; obtain feedback to enhance opportunities to better serve the campus community.

Strong leadership, organizational, project management and planning skills with the ability to meet deadlines and facilitate solutions in a fast-paced higher educational environment.

Strong interpersonal and persuasive skills with the ability to work effectively with all levels of employees and management.

Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.

Considerable knowledge of academic institutional program needs including research, outreach programs, and technology needs.

Knowledge and familiarity of web ordering environments, contract management systems and principles, standardization programs, supply chain and materials management programs and distribution methods.  Demonstrated familiarity with financial system concepts, eProcurement systems, and actual utilization including sourcing activities.

Ability to analyze market trends and benchmarks for best practices and develop specifications.

Excellent computer skills with strong technical skills to work with multiple database programs including Microsoft Access. Knowledge of automated procurement systems (e.g., Jaggaer) and reporting tools (e.g., WebFOCUS).

Demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to mentoring, coaching, and developing a team.

Experience making presentations that represent the Department and University to external groups.

Must be able to travel frequently and have reliable transportation.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.), or Ph.D.

Certification by a recognized professional organization, including: Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), Certified Associate in Contract Management (CACM), Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM), or Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP).

Demonstrated, professional procurement experience preferably in a higher education institution (public or private) or Fortune 100 company.

Familiarity and working knowledge of SciQuest/Jaggaer and Kuali Financial Systems.

Strong understanding with demonstrated success in strategic procurement principles and approaches.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, permanent position located at the Storrs campus.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #495214, to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references.  Screening will begin immediately.

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on June 30, 2021.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty, and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University's teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn's ranking as one of the nation's top research universities. UConn's faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural, and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.

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