Senior Director for Purchasing (Purchasing Officer)

Wake County Public School System•Raleigh, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Provides executive-level leadership for the Wake County Public School System’s (WCPSS) procurement operations under the general direction of the Finance Officer. Provides strategic leadership and oversight for district-wide procurement, surplus property management, warehouse operations, courier and mail services, and purchasing compliance. Ensures all procurement activities adhere to federal, state, and local statutes while promoting operational efficiency, fiscal stewardship, and risk mitigation. Leads procurement innovation, manages high-value contracts, and develops policies, training, and systems that support transparent and compliant purchasing operations across the district. Also leads and supervises purchasing staff and ensures that procurement activities effectively support the operational and educational mission of WCPSS.

Requirements

Considerable knowledge of Microsoft Office specifically, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; Google Apps;
Considerable professional experience in governmental or public-sector purchasing and procurement, including competitive bidding, contract administration, and regulatory compliance;
Demonstrated leadership experience with progressively responsible supervisory and management responsibilities;
Strong analytical and organizational skills with the ability to interpret and present complex compensation data;
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both in oral and written form using a variety of communication techniques and tools to ensure the appropriate flow of information, collaborative efforts, and feedback; excellent public speaking and presentation skills;
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school system staff, external funding agencies, and the community.
Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, finance, supply chain management, or a closely related field from an accredited institution;
Five years of progressive experience in procurement, purchasing, sourcing, or supply chain operations;
Experience using ERP or procurement systems (SAP, Oracle, MS Dynamics, etc.);
Three years of supervisory experience;
An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB), or equivalent.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Oracle ERP systems;
Experience in a public school system, local government, or other public entity.

Responsibilities

Directs all district procurement activities, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local purchasing statutes, policies, and competitive bidding requirements.
Oversees contract development, negotiation, processing, and approval to ensure legal, regulatory, and audit compliance.
Develops and implements procurement strategies that support organizational goals and ensure responsible stewardship of public funds.
Maintains expert knowledge of procurement laws and practices in governmental and private sectors to guide policy development and operational improvements.
Provides guidance to district leadership and departments on procurement regulations, risk mitigation, and contract management practices.
Applies risk management principles to purchasing activities to minimize financial, operational, and compliance risks.
Ensures procurement systems support competitive bidding, vendor management, transparency, and regulatory compliance.
Oversees administration and use of the North Carolina electronic Vendor Portal (eVP) including electronic bidding and eProcurement platforms.
Evaluates and implements technology solutions that improve procurement efficiency, reporting, and compliance.
Oversees the district procurement card (P-Card) program to ensure accountability, compliance, and strong financial controls.
Promotes transparency, accountability, and collaboration between purchasing, finance, and operational departments.
Oversees surplus property and recycling programs to ensure efficient asset management and compliance with statutory and policy requirements.
Develops and delivers procurement training and serves as a subject matter expert on purchasing procedures and compliance requirements.
Manages daily warehouse operations, including materials distribution, inventory management, and workplace safety compliance.
Oversees district courier and mail services to ensure reliable and efficient delivery of materials, documents, and equipment.
Performs other related duties, as assigned.