Managing Purchasing Agent

Utah Retirement Systems; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Utah offers an exciting opportunity for a Procurement Manager to oversee its procurement staff and ensure compliance with state and federal laws. This role includes supervision of daily operations, vendor negotiations, and policy enforcement, ideal for candidates with a strong educational background in business and relevant experience. Join a committed team to contribute significantly to public service while enjoying competitive salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, 4 years relevant experience preferred.
• Certification as Certified Public Purchasing Officer or Certified Professional Public Buyer preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supervise procurement team and monitor workflow.
• Negotiate with vendors for goods and services.
• Establish and enforce purchasing policies.

Skills

Communication

Negotiation

Organizational skills

Mathematical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, accounting, finance, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Adobe

Accounting software

Job description

About The Company

Utah Retirement Systems provides benefits for state and other Utah Public employees through two divisions: the Retirement Office, which administers pension and retirement benefits, and PEHP Health & Benefits, which specializes in medical, dental, life, and other benefits. We pride ourselves on providing peace of mind for thousands of Utah families and are committed to our public mission and maintaining a positive team environment. We offer a competitive salary, and our benefits far exceed those of most modern employers.

Job Description

Position Summary:

Performs a variety of administrative and managerial duties related to planning, organizing, directing, and controlling the day-to-day functions of the procurement staff. Performs a wide range of purchasing duties required for planning and evaluating department needs, analyzing product specifications, vendor information, market forces, and oversight of staff. Provides guidance on policies, regulations, and procedures to prepare and audit quotes, bids, RFPs, requisitions, and contracts. Assists management in negotiating and renewing vendor contracts for materials, supplies, equipment, and services for URS/PEHP.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Supervises the daily operations of the procurement team and monitors workflow to ensure timely completion.
2. Ensures all deadlines and responsibilities are met. Develops team members, helps them meet goals, welcomes newcomers, and promotes a team environment.
3. Supervises training, sets employee goals, coaches, delegates, coordinates training, maintains quality control, and sets priorities efficiently.
4. Evaluates worker performance, job retention, advancement, discipline, and discharge. Participates in recruitment and hiring processes.
5. Negotiates with vendors for goods and services, securing the best prices and service guarantees according to established criteria.
6. Creates and maintains reports, spreadsheets, and documentation related to contracts, vendor status, and goods/services.
7. Establishes, updates, and enforces purchasing policies, working with upper management to communicate procedures.
8. Reviews procurement policies to ensure compliance with State and Federal laws and industry best practices.
9. Audits accounts payable, RFPs, and RFIs for compliance with policies and regulations.
10. Reviews and approves contracts for compliance prior to approval.
11. Ensures contracts are current, terms match office needs, and maintains documentation for archives.
12. Consults with management to forecast purchasing needs.
13. Collaborates on selecting, implementing, and maintaining purchasing systems and software.
14. Maintains reliable attendance and confidentiality.
15. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, accounting, finance, or a related field, plus 4 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination. Certification as a Certified Public Purchasing Officer or Certified Professional Public Buyer is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Technical skills include proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe, and accounting software. Knowledge of finance, including budgeting, fiscal principles, and laws, is required. Mathematical skills include calculating discounts, interest, ratios, and projections. Strong communication skills are essential for preparing reports, writing correspondence, and resolving problems. Extensive knowledge of purchasing practices, negotiation, and organizational principles is necessary. Ability to prioritize, work under deadlines, work independently and in teams, and establish effective relationships is required. The candidate must demonstrate judgment, integrity, and alignment with URS values.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a typical office setting with physical activities such as walking, standing, sitting, reaching, and talking. Good dexterity is required for essential functions.