Strategic Procurement Leader - Deputy Director (Acting)

Northeastern Illinois University; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Northeastern Illinois University is seeking an experienced procurement leader to oversee day-to-day operations including competitive sourcing, requisitions, supplier onboarding and contract execution. The role includes mentoring staff and ensuring policy compliance.

The position leads strategic sourcing, spend analysis, and collaboration across departments to ensure budget alignment and compliant purchasing; a focus on BEP-certified minority vendors is expected.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day procurement operations, including competitive sourcing, purchase requisitions, supplier onboarding and contract execution.
• Supervise and mentor procurement staff, ensuring consistent application of policies and best practices.
• Assist in developing, implementing and maintaining procurement policies, procedures, and systems.
• Serve as acting director in the absence of the Director of Procurement.
• Lead strategic-sourcing initiatives to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve supplier performance.
• Partner with departments to analyze spend data and develop purchasing strategies aligned with university objectives.
• Oversee supplier qualification, onboarding, and performance evaluation processes.
• Promote supplier diversity and the use of BEP-certified minority vendors.
• Ensure purchase requests are consistent with budgets and funding.
• Review all contracts and certifications for filing with the State Comptroller.
• Promotes the use of BEP-certified minority vendors.
• Support the Workday Implementation process and optimization of the Workday ERP system.
• Provide guidance and training to university departments on procurement best practices, compliance and contract management.
• Oversee and manage the university's Corporate P-Card Program.
• Review all federally funded contracts and intergovernmental agreements. Ensure purchasing is consistent and compliant with specific terms.
• Involves meeting with Unit heads/Deans as required.
• Build collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders, external vendors and consortium partners.
• Represent Procurement on university committees and initiatives.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Job description

Northeastern Illinois University is seeking an experienced procurement leader to oversee day-to-day operations including competitive sourcing, requisitions, supplier onboarding and contract execution. The role includes mentoring staff and ensuring policy compliance.

The position leads strategic sourcing, spend analysis, and collaboration across departments to ensure budget alignment and compliant purchasing; a focus on BEP-certified minority vendors is expected.