Deputy Agency Procurement Officer

State of North Carolina

1d • $73,096 - $142,538

About The Position

The Deputy Agency Procurement Officer (DAPO) - Office of Procurement, Contracts and Grants (OPCG) is responsible for the day-to-day management and operations of OPCG, and reports to the Agency Procurement Officer (APO) - Office of Procurement, Contracts and Grants (OPCG), receiving supervision and guidance as required. OPCG’s scope and focus has broadened to align with DHHS’s mission and values. This position will provide a high level of support to ensure that customer service is a priority. The DAPO will provide direction and oversight for all procurement, contract and grant managers and their staff whether working remotely or on State property or in any of the State facilities. This position provides management and oversight on the operational planning, organizing, and managing daily operations; human resources management and staff development; program policy and procedure design and implementation; and associated business functions. This position ensures best value in responsiveness, responsible government procurement through strategic sourcing and contract management, consistent application of the law, equity for contract parties, and public accountability. Work involves development of internal operating policies and procedures consistent with state and federal laws; and assisting the Agency Procurement Officer with the development. This position is responsible for the daily oversight of complex procurement operations and services within the department to ensure compliance with procurement statutes, administrative codes, and the state and OPCG purchasing manual. This position manages relationships with internal and external stakeholders by building cross-departmental relationships that drive continuous improvements and focus on providing excellent customer service.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business from an appropriately accredited institution and five years of progressive procurement experience, one year of which must be of a supervisory nature; OR An equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Completion of the North Carolina Contract Management Certification Program within one year of hire into the position.

Nice To Haves

• Expert-level proficiency in evaluating competitive bids and applying cost analysis methodologies, including total cost of ownership and life cycle assessments.
• Demonstrated experience using automated procurement platforms and e-procurement tools to manage complex purchasing workflows and ensure compliance.
• Proven track record in leading strategic sourcing initiatives for high-value contracts, incorporating market research and supplier performance metrics.
• Advanced skill in negotiating contract terms and conditions to achieve measurable cost savings and mitigate organizational risk.
• Experience in supervising procurement teams, including assigning tasks, monitoring outcomes, and implementing process improvements to enhance operational efficiency.
• Documented success managing procurement operations in a government or public-sector environment with strict compliance requirements.
• Experience in using North Carolina state purchasing systems and applying Division of Purchase and Contract policies in daily operations.
• Demonstrated achievement in implementing cost-reduction strategies and supplier performance improvement plans that resulted in measurable savings.
• Experience conducting risk assessments and developing mitigation strategies for complex contracts and vendor relationships.
• Documented skills in creating and delivering procurement-related training or guidance to staff and stakeholders to improve compliance and efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Direct procurement operations to ensure compliance with North Carolina purchasing laws, regulations, and policies.
• Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans for high-value and complex requisitions.
• Evaluate and analyze bids, coordinate selection processes, and recommend contract awards.
• Negotiate terms and conditions with vendors to achieve cost savings and mitigate risk.
• Perform cost and price analysis, including total cost of ownership and life cycle assessments.
• Manage supplier performance and enforce contract requirements to ensure service quality.
• Provide technical guidance and consultation to agency leadership on procurement strategies.
• Supervise and mentor procurement staff, assigning work and monitoring performance outcomes.
• Investigate and resolve vendor protests, product complaints, and contract disputes.
• Utilize automated procurement systems and e-procurement tools to streamline purchasing processes.

Benefits

• The State of North Carolina offers excellent comprehensive benefits. Employees can participate in health insurance options, standard and supplemental retirement plans, and the NCFlex program (numerous high-quality, low-cost benefits on a pre-tax basis). Employees also receive paid vacation, sick, and community service leave. In addition, paid parental leave is available to eligible employees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees