Deputy Director, Procurement

NEIU•Chicago, IL

4d•$75,000 - $83,000•Onsite

About The Position

This position supports the strategic and operational management of the university’s procurement and contracting functions. This role ensures that all purchasing activities comply with the Procurement Code of Illinois, Regulations of the Northeastern Illinois University Board of Trustees, and University policies and procedures related to transactions, contracts, and purchases. The Deputy Director, Procurement will also oversee contract administration, supplier relationships, and staff development to advance the institution's procurement goals.

Requirements

Eleven (11) years of progressively responsible management work experience in a private or governmental organization
Eight (8) years in the area of designated specialization required by the position
Three (3) years supervising the work of a professional staff or process within the designated specialization
Bachelor’s degree may be substituted for the above three (3) years non-specialized experience requirement
Master’s degree may be substituted for one (1) year specialized work experience

Nice To Haves

Undergraduate degree in business or related field.
Three (3) years of supervisory experience.
One (1) to three (3) years of experience working with all levels of an organization.
Knowledge of the Illinois Procurement Code and/or experience with a public university.
Experience in implementing and using Workday Finance ERP System.
Familiar with joint purchasing cooperatives (IPHEC or E&I).
CPPB preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day procurement operations, including competitive sourcing, purchase requisitions, supplier onboarding and contract execution.
Supervise and mentor procurement staff, ensuring consistent application of policies and best practices.
Assist in developing, implementing and maintaining procurement policies, procedures, and systems.
Serve as acting director in the absence of the Director of Procurement.
Lead strategic-sourcing initiatives to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve supplier performance.
Partner with departments to analyze spend data and develop purchasing strategies aligned with university objectives.
Oversee supplier qualification, onboarding, and performance evaluation processes.
Promote supplier diversity and the use of BEP-certified minority vendors.
Ensure purchase requests are consistent with budgets and funding.
Review all contracts and certifications for filing with the State Comptroller.
Promotes the use of BEP-certified minority vendors.
Support the Workday Implementation process and optimization of the Workday ERP system.
Provide guidance and training to university departments on procurement best practices, compliance and contract management.
Oversee and manage the university’s Corporate P-Card Program.
Review all federally funded contracts and intergovernmental agreements. Ensure purchasing is consistent and compliant with specific terms.
Review contracts as needed and annually for renewal purposes. This involves meeting with Unit heads/Deans as required.
Build collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders, external vendors and consortium partners.
Represent Procurement on university committees and initiatives.
Performs related duties as assigned