Director of Procurement Services

Florida’s newest state university is looking for exceptional candidates to serve as the Director of Procurement Services.

Florida Poly opened its doors on August 16, 2014, as the state’s 12th university and the only one dedicated to core subjects in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The non-traditional academic environment focuses on applied learning, specifically in technology and engineering. Small class sizes give faculty the opportunity to work closely with high-caliber students, and the most advanced technology – including a Supercomputer, 3D printing lab, media lab and nanotechnology lab – sets Florida Poly apart from other state universities. Florida Poly’s innovative approach to higher education allows students to learn strong fundamentals within a traditional university department structure, while giving them opportunities to apply their learning through research and projects in emerging high-tech concentrations like Cyber Security, Big Data Analytics, Machine Intelligence and more. The University partners closely with industry leading firms, and faculty members are rewarded for more than just publishing. Industry involvement, problem solving, and the commercialization of technology and research through start-ups and small businesses are also encouraged.

Lakeland, home to Florida Polytechnic University’s ultra-modern campus, is located along the I-4 High Tech Corridor halfway between Tampa and Orlando. Our central Florida community combines small town comfort with big-city culture. Florida’s High Tech Corridor is home to 11,000 high-tech businesses, and Polk County alone has more than 600,000 residents, four universities and one state college. Lakeland is just a 45-minute drive from Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, professional sports teams, and thriving performing art centers. With no income tax in Florida, and home values increasing 14.3% on average over the past year, Lakeland and central Florida continue to rise among the best places to live and work.

SUMMARY OF POSITION ROLE/RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Director of Purchasing Services, a department within the office of the University’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This position reports directly to the CFO as such is a key member of the CFO’s team. The Director of Procurement Services is responsible for the day to day operations of the procurement and purchasing department.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Plan the strategic direction and activities of the Procurement office such as sourcing initiatives, contract negotiation and compliance, campus outreach and training.
  • Establish goals and objectives to meet the purchasing needs of the University.
  • Develop, review, evaluate and implement or improves purchasing (including P-Card and travel) procedures, policies, regulations and training.
  • Respond to audit comments with recommended changes and ensure implementation of the changes.
  • Oversee University competitive solicitations and contract review. This includes Invitation to Bid, Request for Proposal, and Invitation to Negotiate.
  • Insure that public solicitation responses are held in a secure place and contents sealed until bid opening date and time.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable Federal Regulations and State statutes Board of Governors rules and regulations and university policies and procedures relative to procurement.
  • Serves as the main point of contact for all procurement matters.
  • Responsible for negotiating and executing purchase orders or vendor contracts as required to support the needs of the University.
  • Develop an overall vendor base which creates and sustains a competitive advantage.
  • Plan staff and resource allocation to meet campus demands, this includes interacting with Officers and Directors to establish their upcoming needs for campus.
  • Implement best practices within the procurement office including technology solutions which improve procurement processes.
  • Represent the Procurement Services department in vendor disputes and protest hearings.
  • Supervision and development of purchasing staff to continue to meet changing needs of the University.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge and experience with principles and practices of purchasing, procurement and surplus property management for a state university or other governmental agency.
  • Knowledge and experience with State Statutes and Federal Regulations relative to purchasing in a University environment.
  • Ability to compose bid specifications, request for proposals, request for information, invitations to negotiate and other documents required.
  • Ability to negotiate and analyze contracts.
  • Demonstrated leadership and management skills.
  • Excellent communication skills verbally and written.
  • Ability to handle multiple task, with awareness to deadlines.
  • Inquisitive, detail-oriented with strong quantitative analytical skills and an innovative approach to problem solving.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master's degree in an appropriate area of specialization and six years of appropriate experience; or a bachelor's degree in an appropriate area of specialization and eight years of appropriate experience.
  • Experience with a complex Enterprise Software System and P-Card program.
  • Florida state or local governmental or State University experience is required.
  • Excellent MS Office capabilities required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

The following certifications are highly valued.

  • Certified Public Purchasing Buyer (CPPB)
  • Certified Public Manager (CPM)
  • Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO)

EXPECTED STARTING SALARY: Commensurate with experience.

Application Deadline Date: The position is open until filled.

For a chance to work with the next generation of STEM leaders and to make an impact in emerging high-tech fields, please complete the following application of employment and email it ,along with your cover letter and resume.

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