Strategic IT Procurement Leader (Contracts)

A cover letter and resume are important submissions for the hiring team to get a sense of your experience. In the cover letter, in one page or less, please let us know how this role aligns with your career aspirations and skills. Submit both a cover letter and resume as one file. Competitive salary available based on qualifications, experience and education of the selected candidate. Who We Are About the University of Michigan Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan is widely regarded as the defining public university and one of the world's leading institutions of higher education. With campuses in Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint, U-M serves a large and diverse academic community and is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, including strong placement in the Times Higher Education and Quacquarelli Symonds's (QS) World University Rankings. The university's excellence in teaching, research, healthcare, and service, combined with its scale and impact, creates a compelling environment for a skilled procurement professional who is energized by mission-driven work, institutional complexity, and the opportunity to help contribute to one of the most influential public universities in the world. About Information and Technology Services Under the leadership of the VPIT-CIO, Information and Technology Services provides technology and communications services that support the University of Michigan's academic, research, clinical, and administrative missions across all campuses. ITS manages enterprise systems, digital infrastructure, and the university's overall IT and information security strategy in partnership with units across Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Flint, and Michigan Medicine. ITS' mission is to be trusted enablers of technology for the U-M community, and its vision is for the University of Michigan to be a leader in the appropriate use of technology among its peers and in the world. For more information about ITS, visit: Job Summary Information and Technology Services (ITS) is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Lead, IT Procurement & Contracts to join the Procurement team and serve as a key contributor and emerging leader. This role bridges tactical execution and strategic oversight, combining deep, hands-on procurement expertise with growing responsibility for leadership, planning, and operational influence. The Senior Lead manages complex technology procurement activities (software, hardware, and professional services), leads high-value negotiations, and drives process improvements while partnering closely with leadership on strategic initiatives. This position serves as a trusted advisor to stakeholders, mentors team members, and may oversee projects or staff, positioning the incumbent for future advancement into a formal management role. This position reports directly to the Assistant Director of IT Purchasing and Contracts. Responsibilities* Lead end-to-end procurement activities for complex and high-value technology purchases, including sourcing, competitive bidding, contract negotiation, and purchasing. Negotiate software, hardware, and professional services agreements to achieve optimal pricing, terms, and risk mitigation. Serve as a primary liaison between ITS, central procurement, legal, and vendors. Manage vendor relationships, ensuring strong performance, issue resolution, and long-term strategic value. Analyze market trends, licensing models, and supplier strategies to inform purchasing decisions. Partner with procurement and ITS leadership to support short and long-term planning, including contract strategy, cost optimization, and process improvements. Contribute to development and refinement of procurement policies, standards, and best practices. Analyze spend data and procurement metrics to identify trends, efficiencies, and cost-saving opportunities. Support compliance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and audit readiness. Assist in shaping sourcing strategies and improving contract lifecycle management. Project & Cross-Functional Leadership Lead or co-lead complex, cross-functional procurement initiatives with broad organizational impact. Collaborate with technical teams, project managers, and business stakeholders to align procurement strategies with project goals. Provide guidance on budgeting, forecasting, and vendor selection decisions. Represent procurement in key meetings and presentations, including with senior leadership. Mentor and provide guidance to junior procurement staff, reviewing work and supporting professional development. Delegate tasks and provide oversight on procurement activities where appropriate. Serve as a subject matter expert and escalation point for complex procurement issues. May provide input into performance evaluations and hiring processes. Operational Support & Continuous Improvement Maintain working knowledge of team responsibilities to provide backup support as needed. Identify and implement improvements to procurement workflows, tools, and systems. Support initiatives to enhance customer experience and service delivery across ITS. Required Qualifications* Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or Information Technology. Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in procurement, contract management, or related fields. Demonstrated experience in IT procurement, including negotiating complex software and technology contracts. Proven ability to operate independently while influencing stakeholders and outcomes. Experience leading projects and mentoring or guiding others Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present to technical teams and leadership. Experience with procurement systems, ERP platforms, and contract management tools. A valid professional certification such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM). Desired Qualifications* Master's degree (MBA or related field). Prior supervisory or managerial experience Experience in higher education or similarly complex organizations. Exposure to budgeting, financial planning, or compliance functions. Experience supporting audits, vendor performance management, or contract lifecycle strategy. Modes of Work Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes . Additional Information This role is designed as a senior individual contributor position with leadership responsibilities and offers a pathway toward future management opportunities. The selected candidate will further develop expertise in IT procurement while gaining experience in strategic planning, team leadership, and operational oversight. The ideal candidate will be able to mentor and guide junior procurement staff by reviewing work, supporting professional development, and delegating tasks with appropriate oversight. This role will also serve as a subject matter expert and escalation point for complex procurement matters, providing direction and support to promote effective and efficient procurement operations. Benefits at the University of Michigan In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include: Generous time off A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting Many choices for comprehensive health insurance Life insurance Long-term disability coverage Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses Dental and Vision Insurance Parental and Maternity Leave Application Deadline Job openings are posted for at least seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended. U-M EEO Statement The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr