"Director of Procurement and Business Operations"

Suffolk County Community College is seeking a dynamic Director of Procurement and Business Operations to be a part of a talented team. Reporting to the Vice President for Business and Financial Services.

Position Summary

The Director of Procurement provides strategic and operational leadership for all purchasing and procurement functions at Suffolk County Community College. This position ensures that procurement activities are conducted in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, community college policies, grant regulations, and ethical standards. The Director leads procurement planning, competitive bidding, contract negotiation, vendor management, and purchasing operations to support the college’s educational mission, operational needs, and fiscal stewardship. In addition, this position is responsible for supervising and directing Central Receiving, warehouse operations, College-wide mail distribution and print shop.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive procurement strategy aligned with institutional goals, budget priorities, and sustainability initiatives.
• Provide direction on purchasing policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure transparency, efficiency, and compliance.
• Forecast purchasing needs and collaborate with academic and administrative units to support long-term planning.

Operations & Compliance

• Oversee all procurement activities, including purchasing, competitive solicitations (RFPs, RFQs, IFBs), contracting, and vendor selection for the College.
• Ensure compliance with public procurement laws and regulations, including state statutes, community college district policies, and federal grant requirements (e.g., Uniform Guidance).
• Review, approve, and execute contracts, agreements, and renewals.
• Maintain accurate procurement documentation and records for auditing and reporting purposes.
• Administers a College-wide inventory control system, to ensure proper recording and maintenance of College assets.

Vendor & Contract Management

• Develop and maintain productive vendor relationships; evaluate vendor performance and resolve contract issues.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions to achieve cost savings and value for the institution.
• Support efforts related to supplier diversity and inclusive procurement practices.

Financial Management

• Collaborate with Finance and Budget teams to align purchasing decisions with budget constraints and fiscal responsibility guidelines.
• Analyze procurement data to identify cost-saving opportunities, process improvements, and market trends.
• Manage procurement-related technology systems (e.g., ERP modules, e-procurement systems, bid management software).

Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide leadership and guidance to Procurement Office and Business Services staff
• Equip college staff with knowledge of purchasing procedures, compliance expectations, and policy updates.
• Serve as the primary procurement advisor to college leadership, departments, and stakeholders.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, or related field.
• 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contracting, supply chain, or related functions.
• Experience working in a public sector or regulated procurement environment.
• Strong knowledge of public purchasing laws, competitive bidding processes, and contract administration.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or relevant professional certification (e.g., CPPB, CPPO, CPSM, NIGP-CPP).
• Experience in higher education, government, or other public agencies.
• Experience with ERP procurement systems and e-procurement platforms.
• Demonstrated commitment to supplier diversity and sustainable purchasing practices.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of general municipal law, public procurement regulations and compliance.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and develop staff in a collaborative environment.
• Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Commitment to ethical procurement practices and service to the campus community.

Director of Procurement and Business Operations is an exempt position; compensation will be based on the College's exempt salary and benefit plan. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision, vacation days, deferred compensation and a defined benefit (pension) plan.

Suffolk County Community College is an open admissions institution committed to serving a diverse student population in a variety of degree and career programs. It is the largest community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling more than 21,000 students at its three campuses in Selden, Brentwood, and Riverhead, as well as a Culinary Arts and Hospitality Center in downtown Riverhead.