Strategic Procurement & Contracts Lead

University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 92,592 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Pennsylvania is seeking a Procurement Contracting Specialist to lead procurement strategy and manage contract administration for a large program within the Division of Finance. You will ensure policy compliance, manage procurement systems, and maintain vendor and contract relationships.

Responsibilities include providing strategic guidance on policy interpretation, risk mitigation, and operational best practices, while overseeing day-to-day activities and coordinating training

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's Degree and a minimum of 3–5 years of experience in procurement contract administration or management within a complex organization.
• Demonstrated ability to draft and negotiate diverse types of contracts with varying risk profiles.
• Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to work effectively across a broad range of stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and exercise sound judgment in balancing risk and business objectives.

Responsibilities

• Lead vendor and contract program in compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.
• Serve as a subject matter expert and strategic advisor, offering guidance on policy interpretation, compliance, risk mitigation, and operational best practices.
• Manage day-to-day operational activities, including workflow oversight, issue resolution, stakeholder support, and escalation management as needed.
• Oversee and develop staff training, and change management to support a scalable and compliant operating model.
• Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders and leadership to align systems, reporting, policies, and training efforts, support strategic initiatives, and ensure continuity of operations and effective governance.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Negotiation

Procurement knowledge

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Contract lifecycle management systems

Job description

The University of Pennsylvania is seeking a Procurement Contracting Specialist to lead procurement strategy and manage contract administration for a large program within the Division of Finance. You will ensure policy compliance, manage procurement systems, and maintain vendor and contract relationships.

Responsibilities include providing strategic guidance on policy interpretation, risk mitigation, and operational best practices, while overseeing day-to-day activities and coordinating training