Senior Buyer

About the Department

The Purchasing Department's mission is to support the University by purchasing goods and services in the most strategic manner. The department takes the lead in procurement activities and conducts research on behalf of end users. Objectives include procuring items at reasonable costs, using appropriate quality standards, adding value through negotiation, and complying with laws and regulations.

About the Position

Conduct the most complex agency procurement actions for a diverse portfolio of complex and technical goods and services, frequently in excess of $100,000. Independently oversee strategic sourcing activities within assigned commodities to ensure that the best value is realized. Provide prompt, accurate, and responsive procurement support to the University by applying the principles of competition and strategic sourcing to maintain the intent of the public procurement function.

Responsibilities

• Performs work at the highest level of difficulty related to the solicitation and execution of complex procurement contracts
• Conducts procurement activities frequently in excess of $100,000 per procurement
• Applies extensive industry knowledge and agency regulations in formulating the most complex term-contracts
• Uses critical skills and knowledge to determine best method of procurement
• Works independently and exercise considerable discretion and judgment
• Reviews purchase requisitions submitted by University departments
• Oversees and administers RFP's from start to finish ensuring compliance with State Law
• Prepares purchase orders, negotiate contracts, document cost savings/avoidance
• Conducts and oversees strategic sourcing activities within assigned categories
• Customer Service/vendor assistance, contract administration
• Assists heads of departments and other University leaders with procurement and contractual matters
• Develops reliable sources of supply, research product information
• Encourages participation by small, women-owned and minority businesses

Required Qualifications

• Previous experience in a County, State, Federal or university purchasing organization as a Senior Buyer/Contracting Officer
• Extensive experience in purchasing complex goods and services
• Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of strategic sourcing
• Ability to handle a high volume of complex work and multiple assignments independently
• Frequently conducts RFPs up to three million dollars in value
• Ability to analyze bids, interpret specifications, negotiate open market purchases and contracts
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Professional Purchasing certification from an approved source will be required within 24 months of hire

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in related field
• CUPO, VCO, CPPB, CPPO, CPM, CPSM, FAC-C, CFCM or equivalent high level procurement certification strongly preferred
• Higher education experience in Virginia or Federal Government experience strongly preferred
• Previous eVA and Ellucian Banner experience