Deputy Director, Procurement

Deputy Director, Procurement

Northeastern offers a rewarding working environment for our students and employees. Our faculty and staff are smart, dedicated people who work to create an excellent urban university experience for bright and motivated students.

Job Summary :

This position supports the strategic and operational management of the university's procurement and contracting functions. This role ensures that all purchasing activities comply with the Procurement Code of Illinois, Regulations of the Northeastern Illinois University Board of Trustees, and University policies and procedures related to transactions, contracts, and purchases. The Deputy Director, Procurement will also oversee contract administration, supplier relationships, and staff development to advance the institution's procurement goals.

Job Description :

• 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.

Minimal Qualifications :

Eleven (11) years of progressively responsible management work experience in a private or governmental organization :

Eight (8) years in the area of designated specialization required by the position

AND

Three (3) years supervising the work of a professional staff or process within the designated specialization

Departmental Preferences :

This position requires a background check.

Salary Range $75,000 - $81,000

Benefits

University employees may be eligible for a variety of State of Illinois benefits. These benefits are administered through the Illinois Department of Central Management Service (CMS). Please visit our Employee Benefits page to learn more about our comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision benefits, sick and vacation days, and participation in the State Universities Retirement System.

Northeastern Illinois University is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and invites applications from Women, Minorities, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities, as well as other qualified individuals. Northeastern Illinois University's positions are contingent upon the University's receipt of its State of Illinois appropriation.