Senior Buyer

University of Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university is seeking a Senior Buyer to manage procurement and contracting for various services. The role requires strong communication skills and experience in handling complex projects. The ideal candidate will lead procurement staff, negotiate contracts, and promote diversity initiatives while ensuring compliance with regulations. This position is pivotal in enhancing procurement processes and achieving cost containment.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of relevant work experience.
• Completion of Certified Purchasing Management courses.

Responsibilities

• Communicate and provide procurement advice to University departments.
• Negotiate contracts and manage RFQ/P/I processes.
• Analyze commodity spend to identify trends.

Skills

Communication

Negotiation

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in business

College or university degree in a related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Access

Job description

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Department

F&A FIN - Facilities Procurement and Economic Impact

About The Department

Procurement Services strives to assimilate knowledge and experience, both within and outside of the University, on the materials or equipment to be purchased and the sources from which they may be obtained. It is our goal to conduct all activities in the best interest of the University, while creating and maintaining quality relationships with our suppliers. Providing these services, in accordance with sound business and procurement practices, Procurement Services seeks to maximize value for every dollar expended and ensure excellence in administrative processes.

Job Summary

This position will be responsible for procurement and contracting of construction, professional services such as architectural/engineering services, facility maintenance services and materials, and other assigned services. Candidates must be experienced in managing multiple complex projects in a fast-paced environment and possess strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Communicate and provide procurement advice, coordination, and service to University departments involved in procurement planning.
• Analyze, document, and recommend on large dollar purchase requests.
• Review and revise contracts of varying complexity.
• Perform final commitment actions under standard University procedures, complying with city, state, and federal regulations.
• Evaluate and process contract requests, ensuring clarity, appropriateness, and proper bid specifications.
• Negotiate contracts, including business, legal, and commercial terms for various services and commodities.
• Advise departments on the use of University contracts and assist in bid specification formulation.
• Manage RFQ/P/I processes as required by procurement guidelines.
• Assist in evaluating supplier proposals and facilitate supplier selection.
• Collaborate to improve procurement processes, increase contract compliance, and reduce transactions.
• Analyze commodity spend to identify trends.
• Promote diversity supplier initiatives and socially responsible purchasing.
• Lead procurement staff operations and mentor junior staff.
• Work with the Business Diversity Manager on inclusion efforts for M/WBE firms.
• Develop cost containment initiatives and maintain procurement systems.
• Evaluate and approve utilization plans and contractor documentation.
• Work independently with clients, ensuring goals are met.
• Perform other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

A college or university degree in a related field and 5-7 years of relevant work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, purchasing, or related field.
• Completion of Certified Purchasing Management courses.
• Five years of procurement experience handling commodities and services.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Access, and data analysis software.
• Ability to develop and draft Scope of Work and review supplier terms.

Preferred Competencies

• Strong problem-solving skills in purchasing and contract issues.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple projects.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (preferred)
• References (3) (preferred)

Upload documents via the "My Experience" page under "Application Documents".