Director of Purchasing

Fairfield University•Fairfield, CT

About The Position

The Director of Purchasing is responsible for strategic and operational leadership of the Purchasing and Central Receiving functions. The Director leads the development and implementation of University-wide procurement strategies that align with the University mission and goals. In addition to managing complex sourcing initiatives, the director oversees and directly contributes to contract review, supplier relationships, risk management, internal control discipline, P-Card administration, and the procurement of goods and services in accordance with prescribed University policies and procedures.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required, or equivalent relevant experience.
10+ years progressive purchasing experience with 5 years in a leadership role or related experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
Experience preparing and analyzing bid documents, negotiations, contract review/redlining, and supplier management.
Proven leadership skills, extremely organized, self-starter with proven ability to problem solve.
Exercise sound independent judgement and communicate well with all levels at the University.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to assess and prioritize multiple tasks, projects, and demands to meet deadlines.
Advanced negotiation skills and strong understanding of contract legal and business terms.
Demonstrated ability to Coach/mentor staff.
Strong Computer Skills, Proficient with MS Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word).

Nice To Haves

Experience with Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) software and Workday is a plus.
Private‑industry experience is valued; exposure to higher education is a plus.

Responsibilities

Strategy & Leadership: In conjunction with the CFO and other Senior Leadership, responsible to formulate the direction, goals, and policies for procurement of the Institution. Translate strategic objectives into tactical business plans and operational processes.
Cost Savings & Value: Identify ethical cost reduction opportunities, optimize spending, and ensure maximum value from supplier relationships.
Vendor & Contract Management: Oversee sourcing initiatives and bidding (RFPs/RFIs/RFQs), vendor selection, negotiations, contract review, onboarding, and performance monitoring. Establish and maintain an open line of communication and effective working relationship with existing and potential suppliers. Responsible for investigating new sources of goods and services to obtain and maintain competitive pricing.
Operations: Manage (plan, prioritize, assign) procurement and Central Receiving operations and staff, and ensure operational excellence and timely completion of processes/workflow. Train and support the University community in all aspects of requisitioning and purchasing processes/modules.
Compliance & Risk: Ensure adherence to all University policies. Minimize financial, legal, and reputational risk to the University.
Process Improvement: Streamline procurement processes, implement best practice, and leverage technology for efficiency and compliance.
Team Management: Train, mentor, and develop Purchasing and Central Receiving staff to foster professional growth and develop a high-performance, service-oriented culture. Set performance goals, supervise, and conduct annual performance reviews.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Responsible for developing and maintaining strong relationships with departments/stakeholders throughout the University.
Growth and Development of the Department: Foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth within the department. Serve as a committee representative in professional organizations such as National Association of Educational Procurement (NAEP) and Connecticut Colleges Purchasing Group (CCPG). Promote an image of efficiency and courtesy throughout the University community.
Performs other related duties as directed. Duties may be changed and/or be added at any time.